Removal Procedure

Important:  Observe and mark the positions of all the driveline components, relative to the propeller shaft and the axles, prior to disassembly. These components include the propeller shafts, drive axles, pinion flanges, output shafts, etc. Reassemble all the components in the exact places in which you removed the parts. Follow any specifications, torque values, and any measurements made prior to disassembly.

Fig 1: Removing Drive Pinion Flange/Yoke And/Or Oil Seal - All Except 9.75 Inch Axle (1 Of 4)

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

1. Raise the vehicle. Refer to LIFTING AND JACKING THE VEHICLE in General Information.
2. Remove the tire and wheel assemblies (8.6 inch, 9.5 inch axles). Refer to TIRE AND WHEEL REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION in Tires and Wheels.
3. Remove the rear brake calipers (8.6 inch, 9.5 inch axles). Refer to BRAKE CALIPER in Disc Brakes.
4. Remove the brake rotors (8.6 inch, 9.5 inch axles). Refer to REMOVAL (REAR -- ALL WITH 4-WHEEL STEERING) or REMOVAL (REAR -- WITHOUT DUAL WHEELS & 4-WHEEL) in Disc Brakes.
5. Remove the axle shafts (10.5 inch axle). Refer to REAR AXLE SHAFT AND/OR GASKET REPLACEMENT  .
6. Reference mark the rear propeller shaft (3) to the rear axle pinion yoke (4).
7. Disconnect the propeller shaft from the axle. Wrap the bearing caps with tape in order to prevent the loss of bearing rollers. Support the propeller shaft as necessary.
8. Measure the amount of torque required to rotate the pinion. Use an inch-pound torque wrench. Record this measurement for reassembly. This will give the combined preload for the following components:
   • The pinion bearings
   • The pinion pilot bearing (10.5 inch axle)
   • The pinion oil seal
   • The differential case bearings
   • The axle bearings (8.6 inch, 9.5 inch axles)
   • The axle seals (8.6 inch, 9.5 inch axles)
9. Draw 2 arrows pointing at each other, one on the pinion stem, the other on the pinion yoke.
10. Record the number of exposed threads on the pinion stem for reference.
    Fig 2: Removing Drive Pinion Flange/Yoke And/Or Oil Seal - All Except 9.75 Inch Axle (2 Of 4)

    Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
11. Install the J 8614-01  as shown.
12. Remove the pinion nut while holding the J 8614-01. 
13. Remove the washer.
    Fig 3: Removing Drive Pinion Flange/Yoke And/Or Oil Seal - All Except 9.75 Inch Axle (3 Of 4)

    Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
14. Install the J 8614-2 (2) and the J 8614-3 (3) into the J 8614-01  (1) as shown.
15. Remove the pinion yoke by turning the J 8614-3 (3) clockwise while holding the J 8614-01  (1).

    Use a container in order to retrieve the lubricant.

16. Remove the pinion oil seal. Use a suitable seal removal tool. Do not damage the housing.
    Fig 4: Removing Drive Pinion Flange/Yoke And/Or Oil Seal - All Except 9.75 Inch Axle (4 Of 4)

    Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.