Locking Differential Cleaning and Inspection
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 2007 GMC Yukon XL, 2007 GMC Yukon, 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe, 2007 Chevrolet Suburban, and 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Clean all the parts with an approved solvent.
- Visually inspect all the parts for excessive wear or breakage. Replace the parts if necessary.
- Inspect the pinion gear and the side gear teeth for any the following conditions:
- Wear
- Cracks
- Scoring
- Spalling
- Inspect the thrust washers for wear.
- Inspect the fit of the side gears on the axle shafts.
- Inspect the differential case for cracks and scoring.
- Inspect the thrust sleeve for excessive wear.
- Inspect the side gear bore for scoring. If scoring is present, replace the entire differential.
- Replace the differential if you find any damage to the case.
IMPORTANT:
Do not replace the thrust sleeve unless it is necessary.