Adjustment of the Differential

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.

IMPORTANT: If it is necessary to replace the left side gear (cam unit) and disc assembly, the right side gear and disc assembly, or the thrust block, the entire differential must be adjusted. The differential is adjusted using selective thickness thrust washers between the clutch pack assemblies and the case and/or different selective thickness thrust blocks.

When adjusting the differential, note the following:

Build up the clutch disc assemblies properly.
Proper clearance between parts is critical to the operation of the unit.
Adjust the backlash and thrust block clearance in the following order:
1. The left side gear backlash
2. The right side gear backlash
3. The thrust block clearance