Installation Procedure
- Install the outer pinion bearing cup using the J 7818 (2) and the J 8092 (1). See Special Tools .
- Install the inner pinion bearing cup using the J 22306 (2) and the J 8092 (1). See Special Tools .
- Determine the selective shim thickness for the pinion. Refer to Pinion Depth Adjustment .
- Install the selective shim between the inner pinion bearing and the shoulder on the gear.
- Install the inner pinion bearing using the J 36614
.
Press the bearing on until the cone seats on the pinion shim.
- Install a new collapsible spacer.
- Lubricate the pinion bearings with axle lubricant. Use the proper fluid. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations .
- Install the drive pinion into the axle housing.
- Install the outer pinion bearing onto the pinion.
- Install a new pinion oil seal using the J 22388 . See Special Tools .
- Apply sealant, GM P/N 12346004 (Canadian P/N 10953480) or equivalent, to the splines of the pinion yoke.
- Install the pinion yoke.
- Seat the pinion yoke onto the pinion shaft by tapping it with a soft-faced hammer until a few pinion shaft threads show through the yoke.
- Install the washer and a new pinion nut.
- Install the J 8614-01 onto the pinion yoke.
- Tighten the pinion nut while holding the J 8614-01
.
Tighten: Tighten the nut until the pinion end play is just taken up. Rotate the pinion while tightening the nut to seat the bearings.
- Measure the rotating torque of the drive pinion using an inch-pound torque wrench.
Specification: The rotating torque of the drive pinion should be 1.7-3.4 N.m (15-30 lb in).
- If the rotating torque of the drive pinion is less than 1.7 N.m (15 lb in), continue to tighten the pinion nut until the specified torque is obtained.
Rotate the pinion several times to ensure the bearings have seated. Recheck the rotating torque and adjust if necessary.
- If the rotating torque of the drive pinion is greater than 3.4 N.m (30 lb in), remove the drive pinion and replace the collapsible spacer and re-install the drive pinion following the steps above.
- Install the differential assembly. Refer to Differential Replacement .
- Install the brake rotors. Refer to Rear Brake Rotor Replacement .
- Install the brake calipers. Refer to Rear Brake Caliper Replacement .
- Install the tire and wheel assemblies. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .
- Fill the axle with lubricant. Use the proper fluid. Refer to Rear Axle Lubricant Replacement .
- Lower the vehicle.
NOTE:
Do not hammer the pinion flange/yoke onto the pinion shaft. Pinion components may be damaged if the pinion flange/yoke is hammered onto the pinion shaft.
NOTE:
Refer to Fastener Notice
.
IMPORTANT:
If the rotating torque is exceeded, the pinion will have to be removed and a new collapsible spacer installed.