Installation Procedure
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 GMC Sierra, 2010 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2010 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2010 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Install the differential ring gear, if necessary. Refer to Drive Pinion and Ring Gear Replacement (8.6, 9.5/9.5 LD, and 11.5 Inch Axles) or Drive Pinion and Ring Gear Replacement (10.5 Inch Axle) .
- Install the differential side bearings, if necessary. Refer to Differential Bearing Replacement .
- Lubricate the differential side bearings with axle lubricant. Use the proper fluid. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations (USA and Canada) .
- Place the case, with the bearing cups installed, into the axle housing.
- Install the bearing caps and the bolts.
- Using the J 24429: spanner, turn the adjusters evenly on each side until snug against the differential.
- Adjust the differential side bearing preload. Refer to Differential Carrier Bearing Preload Adjustment (8.6 Inch Axle) or Differential Carrier Bearing Preload Adjustment (10.5/11.5 Inch Axles) .
- Adjust the backlash. Refer to Backlash Adjustment (8.6 Inch Axle) or Backlash Adjustment (10.5/11.5 Inch Axle) or Backlash Adjustment (9.5 LD Axle) .
- Perform a gear tooth contact pattern check. Refer to Gear Tooth Contact Pattern Inspection .
- Tighten the bearing cap bolts to 185 N.m (136 lb ft) for the and 10.5 inch axle, or 207 N.m (153 lb ft) for the 11.5 inch axle.
- Install the axle shafts and new gaskets. Refer to Rear Axle Shaft and/or Gasket Replacement .
- Install the rear axle housing cover and a new gasket. Refer to Rear Axle Housing Cover and Gasket Replacement (8.6, 9.5 Inch Axles) or Rear Axle Housing Cover and Gasket Replacement (10.5/11.5 Inch Axle) .
- Fill the axle with lubricant. Use the proper fluid. Refer to Approximate Fluid Capacities and Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations (USA and Canada) .
- Remove the support and lower the vehicle.
NOTE:
Support the differential case in order to keep the differential case from falling out of the axle housing.
NOTE:
DO NOT torque the bearing cap bolts at this time.
CAUTION:
Refer to Fastener Caution
.