Adjustment of the Differential

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 GMC Sierra, 2009 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2009 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2009 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: If it is necessary to replace the left side locking differential side gear cam unit and clutch disc assembly, the right side locking differential side gear and clutch disc assembly, or the thrust block, the entire differential must be adjusted. The differential is adjusted using selective thickness thrust washers between the clutch disc assemblies and the case and/or different selective thickness thrust blocks. When adjusting the differential, note the following:

NOTE: Proper clearance between parts is critical to the operation of the unit.

Assemble the clutch disc assemblies properly.
Adjust the backlash and thrust block clearance in the following order:
1. The left side gear backlash
2. The right side gear backlash
3. The thrust block clearance