Locking Differential Cleaning and Inspection
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2004 Oldsmobile Bravada, 2004 GMC Envoy XUV, 2004 GMC Envoy XL, 2004 GMC Envoy, and 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Clean all the parts with an approved solvent.
- Visually inspect all the parts for excessive wear or breakage. Replace the parts if necessary.
- Inspect the pinion gear and the side gear teeth for any the following conditions:
- Wear
- Cracks
- Scoring
- Spalling
- Inspect the thrust washer and shim for wear.
- Inspect the fit of the side gears on the axle shafts.
- Inspect the differential case for cracks and scoring. Replace the differential if any damage to the case is found.
- Inspect the side gear bore for scoring. If scoring is present, replace the differential.
- Inspect the thrust block for excessive wear.
IMPORTANT:
Do not replace the thrust block unless it is necessary.