Lubricant Level Inspection - Rear Drive Axle (8.6 Inch Axle)
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 2003 GMC Yukon XL, 2003 GMC Yukon, 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe, 2003 Chevrolet Suburban, and 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Raise the vehicle. Refer to LIFTING AND JACKING THE VEHICLE in General Information.
- Make sure the vehicle is level.
- Inspect the rear axle for leaks. Repair as necessary.
- Clean the area around the rear axle fill plug.
- Remove the rear axle fill plug.
- Fabricate a dipstick from a pipe cleaner or similar item. Form the pipe cleaner into an "L".
- Insert the pipe cleaner into the fill plug opening with the stem facing down.
- Remove the pipe cleaner and measure the distance from the bend in the pipe cleaner to the lubricant level.
Specification
The distance between the bend and the lubricant level should be 15-40 mm (0.6-1.6 in).
- If the measurement is greater than 40 mm (1.6 in), add lubricant until the level is between 15-40 mm (0.6-1.6 in) from the bottom edge of the fill plug hole. Use the proper fluid. NOTE: Refer to FASTENER NOTICE in Cautions and Notices.
- Install the rear axle fill plug.
Tighten
Tighten the rear axle fill plug to 33 N.m (24 lb ft).
- Lower the vehicle.