Tools Required

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 GMC Sierra, 2003 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2003 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

J 22888-D Side Bearing Remover Kit
J 36597 Side Bearing Puller Pilot - 9.25 in Axle

Remove the differential side bearing by performing the following steps:
1. 1.1. Place the differential case in a vise.
2. 1.2. Install the J 22888-20A (2) and the J 36597 (1) as shown.
3. 1.3. Remove the differential side bearings using the J 22888-20A.
Remove the differential assembly from the vise.

Fig 1: Remove Differential Side Bearings Using J 22888-20A
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

IMPORTANT: The ring gear bolts have left-hand threads.
Remove the ring gear bolts. Discard the bolts.

Fig 2: Remove Ring Gear Bolts
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

NOTE: Do not pry the ring gear from the differential case. Prying the ring gear from the differential case may cause damage to the ring gear and/or the differential case
Remove the ring gear from the differential case.
Drive the ring gear off with a brass drift if necessary.

Fig 3: Removing Ring Gear
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the pinion shaft lock bolt.

Fig 4: Remove Pinion Shaft Lock Bolt
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the pinion shaft.
Remove the differential side gear spacers.

Fig 5: Remove Pinion Shaft
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the differential pinion gears and thrust washers by performing the following steps:
1. 8.1. Drive the pinion gear thrust washers out from the differential case using a hammer and a brass drift.
2. 8.2. Roll the differential pinion gears out of the differential case.
  Mark the pinion gears and thrust washers top and bottom.
Fig 6: Pinion Gears & Thrust Washers
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the differential side gears and thrust washers.
Mark the differential side gears and thrust washers left and right.

Fig 7: Differential Side Gears & Thrust Washers
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.