Removal 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.

Raise the vehicle. Refer to JACKING AND LIFTING .
Remove the differential assembly. Refer to Differential Replacement (8.6 Inch, 9.5 Inch Axles) or Differential Replacement (9.75 Inch Axle) or Differential Replacement (10.5 Inch, 11.5 Inch Axle) .
Remove the pinion gear bearing retainer. Refer to Drive Pinion Housing and/or Seal Replacement .
Remove the pinion yoke and the oil seal. Refer to Drive Pinion Housing and/or Seal Replacement .
Remove the outer pinion bearing.
Remove the pinion.

Fig 1: Outer Pinion Bearing & Pinion
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the collapsible spacer.

Fig 2: Collapsible Spacer
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the inner pinion bearing from the pinion using the J 22912-01 and a hydraulic press.

Fig 3: Remove Inner Pinion Bearing Using J 22912-01
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the outer pinion bearing cup using a hammer and a brass drift in the slots provided.
Move the drift back and forth between one side of the cup and the other in order to work the cups out of the retainer evenly.

Fig 4: Removing Outer Pinion Bearing Cup
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the inner pinion bearing cup using a hammer and a brass drift in the slots provided.
Move the drift back and forth between one side of the cup and the other in order to work the cups out of the retainer evenly.

Fig 5: Removing Inner Pinion Bearing Cup
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the pinion gear pilot bearing using a brass drift and a hammer.

Fig 6: Removing Pinion Gear Pilot Bearing
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.