Installation 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.
- Determine the pinion position shim thickness and the pinion preload shim thickness for the drive pinion gear. Refer to Pinion Depth Adjustment (8.6 Inch, 9.5 Inch, 11.5 Inch Axles) , Pinion Depth Adjustment (9.75 Inch Axle) or Pinion Depth Adjustment (10.5 Inch Axle) .
- Install the ring gear to the differential case.
Align the holes in the differential case to the bolts holes in the ring gear.
- Install the new ring gear bolts.
Hand start each bolt to ensure that the ring gear is properly installed to the differential case.
- Tighten the new ring gear bolts. Tighten the ring gear bolts alternately and in stages, gradually pulling the ring gear onto the differential case.
Tighten: Tighten the new ring gear bolts to 178 N.m (131 lb ft).
- Install the differential assembly. Refer to Differential Replacement (8.6 Inch, 9.5 Inch Axles) , Differential Replacement (9.75 Inch Axle) or Differential Replacement (10.5 Inch, 11.5 Inch Axle) .
- Fill the axle with lubricant. Use the proper fluid. Refer to Lubricant Replacement - Rear Drive Axle (8.6 Inch Axle) , Lubricant Replacement - Rear Drive Axle (9.75 Inch Axle) or Lubricant Replacement - Rear Drive Axle (9.5, 10.5, and 11.5 Inch Axles) .
- Lower the vehicle.
IMPORTANT:
The mating surface of the ring gear and the differential case must be clean and free of burrs before installing the ring gear.
IMPORTANT:
The ring gear bolts have right-hand threads.
NOTE:
Refer to Fastener Notice
in Cautions and Notices.