Installation Procedure
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Oldsmobile Bravada, 2003 GMC Envoy XL, 2003 GMC Envoy, and 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Install the ring gear, if necessary. Refer to DRIVE PINION AND RING GEAR REPLACEMENT .
- Install the differential side bearings, if necessary. Refer to DIFFERENTIAL SIDE BEARINGS REPLACEMENT .
- Lubricate the differential side bearings with axle lubricant. Use the proper fluid. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations in Maintenance and Lubrication.
- Install the J 45222 onto the axle housing as shown.
- Install the J 8001-1 (2), the J 8001-2 (3), the J 34178 (4, 6), and the J 8001-3 (5) as shown.
- Preload the J 8001-3 (5) approximately 3/4 of a turn clockwise.
- Rotate the indicator housing to align the indicator needle of the J 8001-3 (5) and the dial indicator face to ZERO.
- Spread the axle housing by turning the clevis screw of the J 34178
while observing the J 8001-3.
Spread the housing just enough to install the differential assembly. Do not spread the housing more than 1.02 mm (0.040 in).
- Place the case, with the bearing cups installed, into the axle housing.
Support the case in order to keep the case from falling out of the axle housing.
- Install the bearing caps and the bolts.
Do not torque the bearing cap bolts at this time.
- Adjust the differential side bearing preload. Refer to DIFFERENTIAL SIDE BEARING PRELOAD ADJUSTMENT .
- Adjust the backlash. Refer to BACKLASH ADJUSTMENT .
- Perform a gear tooth contact pattern check. Refer to GEAR TOOTH CONTACT PATTERN INSPECTION
. NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice in Cautions and Notices.
- Tighten the bearing cap bolts.
Tighten
Tighten the bearing cap bolts to 75 N.m (55 lb ft).
- Install the axle shafts. Refer to REAR AXLE SHAFT REPLACEMENT .
- Install the rear axle tie rod. Refer to Rear Axle Tie Rod Replacement in Rear Suspension.
- Install the spare tire.
- Lower the vehicle.