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 outer pinion bearing cup using the J 7817 , 8.0 inch axle, or the J 8611-01 , 8.6 inch axle (1), and the J 8092 (2).

Fig 1: Installing Outer Pinion Bearing Cup using Special Tools
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Install the inner pinion bearing cup using the J 8608 (2) and the J 8092 (1).
Determine the selective shim thickness for the pinion. Refer to PINION DEPTH ADJUSTMENT .

Fig 2: Installing Inner Pinion Bearing Cup Using J8608 (2) And J8092 (1)
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Install the selective shim between the inner pinion bearing and the shoulder on the gear.
Install the inner pinion bearing using the J 24433. Press the bearing on until the cone seats on the pinion shim.
Install a new collapsible spacer.
Lubricate the pinion bearings with axle lubricant. Use the proper fluid. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations in Maintenance and Lubrication.
Install the pinion into the axle housing.
Install the outer pinion bearing onto the pinion.

Fig 3: Installing Selective Shim
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Install a new pinion oil seal using the J 33782, 8.0 inch axle, or the J 38694, 8.6 inch axle.
Apply sealant GM P/N 12346004 (Canadian P/N 10953480) or equivalent to the splines of the pinion yoke.

Fig 4: Installing New Pinion Oil Seal
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Install the pinion yoke. Align the marks made during removal.
Seat the pinion yoke onto the pinion shaft by tapping it with a soft-faced hammer until a few pinion shaft threads show through the yoke.
Install the washer and a new pinion nut.

Fig 5: Aligning Marks
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Install the J 8614-01 onto the pinion yoke as shown.
NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice in Cautions and Notices.

IMPORTANT: If the rotating torque is exceeded, the pinion will have to be removed and a new collapsible spacer installed.
Tighten the pinion nut while holding the J 8614-01.
Tighten

Tighten the pinion nut until the pinion end play is just taken up. Rotate the pinion while tightening the nut to seat the bearings.

Fig 6: Installing J 8614-01
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Measure the rotating torque of the pinion using an inch-pound torque wrench.
Specification

The rotating torque of the pinion should be 1.0-2.8 N.m (10-25 lb in) for used bearings, or 1.7-3.4 N.m (15-30 lb in) for new bearings.
If the rotating torque measurement is below 1.0 N.m (10 lb in) for used bearings, or 1.7 N.m (15 lb in) for new bearings, continue to tighten the pinion nut.
Tighten

Tighten the pinion nut, in small increments, as needed, until the torque required in order to rotate the pinion is 1.0-2.8 N.m (10-25 lb in) for used bearings, or 1.7-3.4 N.m (15-30 lb in) for new bearings.

Fig 7: Measuring Rotating Torque
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Once the specified torque is obtained, rotate the pinion several times to ensure the bearings have seated.
Recheck the rotating torque and adjust if necessary.
Install the differential. Refer to DIFFERENTIAL REPLACEMENT .
Install the brake rotors. Refer to Brake Rotor Replacement - Rear in Disc Brakes.
Install the brake calipers. Refer to Brake Caliper Replacement - Rear in Disc Brakes.
Install the tire and wheel assemblies. Refer to TIRE AND WHEEL REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION in Tires and Wheels.
Fill the axle with axle lubricant lubricant. Use the proper fluid. Refer to LUBRICANT REPLACEMENT - FRONT DRIVE AXLE .
Lower the vehicle.