Installation Procedure

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Install the ring gear, if necessary. Refer to Drive Pinion and Ring Gear Replacement (10.5 Inch Axle) or Drive Pinion and Ring Gear Replacement (8.6 Inch Axle) .
Install the differential side bearings, if necessary. Refer to Differential Side Bearings Replacement .
Lubricate the differential side bearings with axle lubricant. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations .

Fig 1: View Of Differential Case And Axle Housing

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

IMPORTANT: Support the case in order to keep the case from falling out of the axle housing.

Place the case, with the bearing cups installed, into the axle housing.

Fig 2: Identifying Bearing Cap Bolt

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Install the bearing caps and the bolts. Do not torque the bearing cap bolts at this time.
Adjust the differential side bearing preload. Refer to Differential Carrier Bearing Preload Adjustment (8.6 Inch Axle) or Differential Carrier Bearing Preload Adjustment (10.5 Inch Axle) .
Adjust the backlash. Refer to Backlash Adjustment (8.6 Inch Axle) or Backlash Adjustment (10.5 Inch Axle) .
Perform a gear tooth contact pattern check. Refer to Gear Tooth Contact Pattern Inspection .

NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice .

Tighten the bearing cap bolts.
Tighten: Tighten the bearing cap bolts to 75 N.m (55 lb ft)
Install the axle shafts. Refer to Rear Axle Shaft Replacement .
Fill the axle with the proper lubricant. Refer to Rear Axle Lubricant Replacement (8.6 Inch Axle) or Rear Axle Lubricant Replacement (10.5 Inch Axle) .
Remove the support and lower the vehicle.