Installation Procedure

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Fig 1: View Of Outer Pinion Bearing Cup Installation Tool

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Install the outer pinion bearing cup using the J 8611-01 , 8. See Special Tools .6 inch axle, or the J 7818 , 9. See Special Tools .5/9.5LD inch axle (1), and the J 8092 (2).

Fig 2: View Of Inner Pinion Bearing Cup Installation

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Install the inner pinion bearing cup using the J 45870 , 8. See Special Tools .6 inch axle, or the J 22306 , 9. See Special Tools .5/9.5LD inch axle (2), and the J 8092 (1).
Determine the selective shim thickness for the drive pinion. Refer to Pinion Depth Adjustment (10.5 Inch Axle) or Pinion Depth Adjustment (8.6, 9.5, 9.5LD Inch Axles) .
Install the selective shim between the inner pinion bearing and the shoulder on the gear.

Fig 3: Installing Inner Pinion Bearing Onto Pinion Gear

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Install the inner pinion bearing using the J 24433 or the J 36614 . See Special Tools .
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 outer pinion bearing into the axle housing.

Fig 4: Installing New Pinion Oil Seal

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Install a new pinion oil seal using the J 22388 . See Special Tools .
Install the pinion into the axle housing.
Apply sealant, GM P/N 12346004 (Canadian P/N 10953480) or equivalent, to the splines of the pinion yoke.

Fig 5: View Of Pinion Shaft & Pinion Yoke Alignment Marks

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Install the pinion yoke.
Align the marks made during removal.

NOTE: Refer to Pinion Flange/Yoke Installation Notice .

Seat the pinion yoke onto the pinion shaft by tapping it with a soft-faced hammer until a few threads show through the yoke.
Install the washer and a new pinion nut.

Fig 6: Holding Pinion Yoke With Special Tool

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Install the J 8614-01 onto the pinion yoke as shown.

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.

Tighten the pinion nut while holding the J 8614-01 .
Tighten: Tighten the pinion nut until the pinion end play is just taken up. Rotate the pinion while tightening the nut to seat the bearings.

Fig 7: Measuring Pinion Rotating Torque

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Measure the rotating torque of the pinion using an inch-pound torque wrench.
Specification: The rotating torque of the pinion should be between 1.0-2.3 N.m (10-20 lb in) for used bearings, or 1.7-3.4 N.m (15-30 lb in) for new bearings.
If the rotating torque measurement is below 1.0 N.m (10 lb in) for used bearings, or 1.7 N.m (15 lb in) for new bearings, continue to tighten the pinion nut.
Tighten: Tighten the pinion nut, in small increments, as needed, until the torque required in order to rotate the pinion is between 1.0-2.3 N.m (10-20 lb in) for used bearings, or 1.7-3.4 N.m (15-30 lb in) for new bearings.
Once the specified torque is obtained, rotate the pinion several times to ensure the bearings have seated.
Recheck the rotating torque and adjust if necessary.
Install the differential assembly. Refer to Differential Replacement .
Fill the axle with lubricant. Use the proper fluid. Refer to Lubricant Replacement - Rear Drive Axle (8.6 Inch Axle) or Lubricant Replacement - Rear Drive Axle (9.5 Inch LD Axle) or Lubricant Replacement - Rear Drive Axle (9.5 Inch HD Axle) .
Lower the vehicle.