Disassembly Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 GMC Sierra, 2004 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2004 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2004 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the differential side bearings. Refer to Differential Side Bearings Replacement (All Except 9.75 Inch Axle) or Differential Side Bearings Replacement (9.75 Inch Axle) .

IMPORTANT: The ring gear bolts have left-hand threads.

Remove the gear bolts. Discard the bolts.

Fig 1: Identifying Ring Gear Bolts

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

NOTE: Refer to Ring Gear Removal Notice in Cautions and Notices.

Remove the ring gear from the differential case.
Drive the ring gear off with a brass drift if necessary.

Fig 2: Removing Ring Gear From Differential

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Remove the differential pinion gears and the differential side gears by performing the following steps:
1. Remove the pinion shaft lock bolt.
2. Remove the pinion shaft.
3. Roll the differential pinion gears out of the case with the pinion gear thrust washers.
4. Remove the differential side gears and the side gear thrust washers.
  Mark the pinion gears top and bottom and the differential side gears left and right.

Fig 3: Exploded View Of Differential Case

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.