Installation Procedure

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

Install the axle shaft (1) into the rear axle housing (5).
Slide the axle shaft (1) into place allowing the splines to engage the differential side gear.
On axles without a locking differential, place the lock (4) on the button end of the axle shaft (1).
On axles with a locking differential, keep the pinion shaft partially withdrawn.

Fig 1: Installing Rear Axle Shaft - 8.6 Inch Axle W/O JL4, 9.5 Inch Axle (1 Of 3)
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
On axles with a locking differential, place the C-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 lock in the differential gear.

Fig 2: Installing Rear Axle Shaft - 8.6 Inch Axle W/O JL4, 9.5 Inch Axle (2 Of 3)
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
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 locking bolt.
Tighten

Tighten the pinion shaft locking bolt to 34 N.m (25 lb ft).
Install the rear cover and the gasket. Refer to REAR AXLE HOUSING COVER AND GASKET REPLACEMENT .
Install the brake caliper. Refer to BRAKE CALIPER in Disc Brakes.
Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to TIRE AND WHEEL REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION in Tires and Wheels.

Fig 3: Installing Rear Axle Shaft - 8.6 Inch Axle W/O JL4, 9.5 Inch Axle (3 Of 3)
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Fill the rear axle. Use the proper fluid.
Lower the vehicle.