Installation Procedure

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 2008 GMC Yukon XL, 2008 GMC Yukon, 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe, 2008 Chevrolet Suburban, and 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: View Of Rear Axle Assembly

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

IMPORTANT: Carefully insert the axle shaft in order to not damage the seal.

Install the axle shaft into the rear axle housing.
Slide the axle shaft into place allowing the splines to engage the differential side gear.

Fig 2: C-Lock At Button End Of Axle Shaft

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

On axles without a locking differential, place the C-lock on the button end of the axle shaft.
On axles with a locking differential, keep the pinion shaft partially withdrawn.

Fig 3: View Of Axle Shaft, Lock & Thrust Block

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

On axles with a locking differential, place the C-lock (1) on the axle shaft (3) so that the ends are flush with the thrust block (2).
Pull the shaft flange outward in order to seat the C-lock in the differential gear.

Fig 4: View Of Pinion Shaft Locking Bolt

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Align the hole in the pinion shaft with the bolt hole in the differential case.

NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice .

Install the new pinion shaft locking bolt.
Tighten:
- For the 8.6 inch axle, tighten the pinion shaft locking bolt to 36 N.m (27 lb ft).
- For the 9.5 LD inch axle, tighten the pinion shaft locking bolt to 50 N.m (37 lb ft).
Install the rear axle housing cover and the gasket. Refer to Rear Axle Housing Cover and Gasket Replacement (8.6 Inch axle) or Rear Axle Housing Cover and Gasket Replacement (10.5 Inch Axle) .
Install the brake caliper. Refer to Rear Brake Caliper Replacement (1500 Series) or Rear Brake Caliper Replacement (2500 Series) .
Install the rear wheel speed sensor.
- For the Hybrid vehicles, refer to Rear Wheel Speed Sensor Replacement .
- For the non Hybrid vehicles (1500 series), refer to Rear Wheel Speed Sensor Replacement .
- For the non Hybrid vehicles (2500 series), refer to Rear Wheel Speed Sensor Replacement .
Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .
Fill the rear axle with axle lubricant. Use the proper fluid. Refer to Rear Axle Lubricant Level Inspection (8.6 Inch Axle) or Rear Axle Lubricant Level Inspection (9.5 Inch LD Axle) .
Lower the vehicle.