Installation Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 GMC Sonoma, 2003 GMC Jimmy, 2003 Chevrolet S10 Pickup, and 2003 Chevrolet Blazer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Important: Carefully insert the axle shaft in order to not damage the seal.

Install the axle shaft into the rear axle housing.

Fig 1: Installing Axle Shaft Into Rear Axle Housing
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Slide the axle shaft into the differential assembly allowing the splines to engage the differential side gear.
On axles without a locking differential, place the axle shaft lock on the button end of the axle shaft.
On axles with a locking differential, place the axle shaft lock (1) on the axle shaft (3) so that the ends are flush with the thrust block (2).
Pull the shaft flange outward in order to seat the axle shaft lock into the differential side gear.
Install the pinion shaft.
Align the hole in the pinion shaft with the bolt hole in the differential case.

NOTE: Refer to FASTENER NOTICE in Cautions and Notices.
Install the new pinion shaft lock bolt.
Tighten

Tighten the pinion shaft locking bolt to 25 N.m (18 lb ft).
Install the rear cover and the gasket. Refer to REAR AXLE HOUSING COVER AND GASKET REPLACEMENT .

Fig 2: Installing New Pinion Shaft Lock Bolt
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Install the brake rotor, if equipped. Refer to BRAKE ROTOR -- REAR in Disc Brakes.
Install the brake caliper, if equipped. Refer to BRAKE CALIPER -- REAR in Disc Brakes.
Install the brake drum, if equipped. Refer to BRAKE DRUM in Drum Brakes.
Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to TIRE AND WHEEL REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION in Tires and Wheels.
Fill the rear axle. Use the proper fluid.
Lower the vehicle.