Installation Procedure
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 GMC Sierra, 2004 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2004 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2004 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Install the outer pinion bearing cup using the J 8611-01 , 8.6 inch axle, or the J 7818 , 9.5 inch axle, or the J 8608 (11.5 inch axle) (2) and the J 8092 (1).
- Install the inner pinion bearing cup using the J 45900 , 8.6 inch axle, or the J 22306 , 9.5 inch axle, or the J 44417 , 11.5 inch axle (2) and the J 8092 (1).
- Determine the selective shim thickness for the pinion. Refer to Pinion Depth Adjustment (8.6 Inch, 9.5 Inch, 11.5 Inch Axles) , Pinion Depth Adjustment (9.75 Inch Axle) or Pinion Depth Adjustment (10.5 Inch Axle) .
- Install the selective shim between the inner pinion bearing and the shoulder on the gear.
- Install the inner pinion bearing using the J 24433
, 8.6 inch axle, or the J 36614
, 9.5 inch axle, or the J 44412
, 11.5 inch axle.
Press the bearing on until the cone seats on the pinion shim.
- Install a new collapsible spacer.
- Lubricate the pinion bearings with axle lubricant. Use the proper fluid. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations in Maintenance and Lubrication.
- Install the outer pinion bearing into the axle housing.
- Install a new pinion oil seal using the J 22388 , 8.6 inch, 9.5 inch axles, or the J 44414 , 11.5 inch axle.
- Install the pinion into the axle housing.
- Apply sealant, GM P/N 12346004 (Canadian P/N 10953480) or equivalent, to the splines of the pinion yoke.
- Install the pinion yoke.
Align the marks made during removal.
- Seat the pinion yoke onto the pinion shaft by tapping it with a soft-faced hammer until a few pinion shaft threads show through the yoke.
- Install the washer and a new pinion nut.
- Install the J 8614-01 onto the pinion yoke as shown.
- Tighten the pinion nut while holding the J 8614-01
.
Tighten: Tighten the pinion nut until the pinion end play is just taken up. Rotate the pinion while tightening the nut to seat the bearings.
- Measure the rotating torque of the pinion using an inch-pound torque wrench.
Specification: The rotating torque of the pinion should be between 1.0-2.3 N.m (10-20 lb in) for used bearings, or 1.7-3.4 N.m (15-30 lb in) for new bearings.
- If the rotating torque measurement is below 1.0 N.m (10 lb in) for used bearings, or 1.7 N.m (15 lb in) for new bearings, continue to tighten the pinion nut.
Tighten: Tighten the pinion nut, in small increments, as needed, until the torque required in order to rotate the pinion is between 1.0-2.3 N.m (10-20 lb in) for used bearings, or 1.7-3.4 N.m (15-30 lb in) for new bearings.
- Once the specified torque is obtained, rotate the pinion several times to ensure the bearings have seated.
Inspect the rotating torque and adjust if necessary.
- Install the differential assembly. Refer to Differential Replacement (8.6 Inch, 9.5 Inch Axles) , Differential Replacement (9.75 Inch Axle) or Differential Replacement (10.5 Inch, 11.5 Inch Axle) .
- Fill the axle with lubricant. Use the proper fluid. Refer to Lubricant Replacement - Rear Drive Axle (8.6 Inch Axle) , Lubricant Replacement - Rear Drive Axle (9.75 Inch Axle) or Lubricant Replacement - Rear Drive Axle (9.5, 10.5, and 11.5 Inch Axles) .
- Lower the vehicle.
NOTE:
Refer to Fastener Notice
in Cautions and Notices.
IMPORTANT:
If the rotating torque is exceeded, the pinion will have to be removed and a new collapsible spacer installed.