Special Tools

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.

J 29710: Differential Side Bearing Installer

Apply axle lubricant to each of the locking differential clutch (friction disc) contact area. Refer to Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers .

Fig 1: Disassembled View Of Locking Differential Side Gear Components

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Install the locking differential cam (3) on the locking differential side gear (2).

NOTE: When installing the locking differential clutch disc set, align the splined discs with the teeth on the cam in order to compress the clutch disc assembly.

Install the locking differential clutch disc set (1) on the locking differential side gear (2).
Position the locking differential side gear thrust sleeve (5).

Fig 2: Installing Thrust Sleeve Onto Cam Side Gear (9.5 Inch Axle)

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

NOTE: If reusing the locking differential side gear thrust sleeve, proceed to step 5. If replacing the locking differential side gear thrust sleeve, proceed to step 6.

Using the J 29710: installer and a hydraulic press, install the locking differential side gear thrust sleeve until it is fully seated on the locking differential side gear.
If the locking differential cam side gear or the locking differential thrust sleeve has been replaced, measure the overall length of the gear assembly by doing the following:
1. Place the locking differential clutch disc thrust washer on top of the thrust sleeve.
2. Measure the overall length of the gear assembly from the front of the cam side gear to the back of the locking differential clutch disc thrust washer.
3. Compare this measurement to the measurement obtained during disassembly.
4. If the new reading is more than 0.762 mm (0.003 in) higher or lower than the original, select a locking differential clutch disc thrust washer that will return the reading closest to the original reading.
Align the ears of all the clutch discs.

NOTE: Applying a small amount of grease on the locking differential guides will hod them in place during the installation procedure.

Install the guide clips to the clutch disc assembly and apply chassis grease to the locking differential guides. Refer to Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers .