Disassembly Procedure

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.

Remove the differential side bearings by performing the following steps:
1. 1.1. Install the differential assembly into a vise.
2. 1.2. Install the J 36597 (1) and the J 22888-20A (2) as shown.
3. 1.3. Remove the differential side bearings using the J 22888-20A.
Fig 1: Remove Differential Side Bearing Using J 36597 & J 22888-20A
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

IMPORTANT: The ring gear bolts have left-hand threads.
Remove the gear bolts. Discard the bolts.
NOTE: Refer to RING GEAR REMOVAL NOTICE .

Fig 2: Gear Bolts
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the ring gear from the differential case. Drive the ring gear off with a brass drift if necessary.

Fig 3: Removing Ring Gear From Differential Case

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Remove the differential pinion gears and the differential side gears by performing the following steps:
1. 4.1. Remove the pinion shaft lock bolt.
2. 4.2. Remove the pinion shaft.
3. 4.3. Drive the pinion gear thrust washer out from the differential case using a hammer and a brass drift.
4. 4.4. Roll the differential pinion gears out of the differential case.
5. 4.5. Remove the differential side gears and the side gear thrust washers.
  Mark the pinion gears top and bottom and the differential side gears left and right.
  
  Fig 4: Pinion Shaft, Lock Bolt, Thrust Washer, Differential Pinion Gears & Differential Side Gears
  Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.