Disassembly Procedure

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Fig 1: Identifying Special Tool J 22888-20A & Differential Side Bearing

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Remove the differential side bearings by performing the following steps:
1. Install the differential assembly into a vise.
2. Install the J 36597 (1) and the J 22888-20A (2) as shown.
3. Remove the differential side bearings using the J 22888-20A .

Fig 2: Identifying Ring Gear Bolts

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

IMPORTANT: The ring gear bolts have left-hand threads.

Remove the gear bolts. Discard the bolts.

Fig 3: View Of From Differential Ring Gear Removal

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

NOTE: Refer to Ring Gear Removal Notice in Cautions and Notices.

Remove the ring gear from the differential case.
Drive the ring gear off with a brass drift if necessary.

Fig 4: Exploded View Of Differential Case

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Remove the differential pinion gears and the differential side gears by performing the following steps:
1. Remove the pinion shaft lock bolt.
2. Remove the pinion shaft.
3. Drive the pinion gear thrust washer out from the differential case using a hammer and a brass drift.
4. Roll the differential pinion gears out of the differential case.
5. Remove the differential side gears and the side gear thrust washers.
  Mark the pinion gears top and bottom and the differential side gears left and right.