Disassembly Procedure

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 22888-20A (2) and the J 8107-2 91) onto the differential case.
3. 1.3. Remove the differential side bearings using the J 22888-20A
Fig 1: Removing Differential Side Bearings Using J 22888-20A
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the differential assembly from the vise.
Important: The ring gear bolts have left-hand threads.
Remove the ring gear bolts. Discard the bolts.

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

NOTE: Refer to RING GEAR REMOVAL NOTICE in Cautions and Notices.
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 Ring Gear Off With Brass Drift
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the differential pinion gears and the differential side gears by performing the following steps:
1. 5.1. Remove the pinion shaft lock bolt.
2. 5.2. Remove the pinion shaft.
3. 5.3. Roll the differential pinion gear out of the case with the pinion thrust washers.
4. 5.4. 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: Differential Pinion Gears & Differential Side Gears
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.