Disassemble Procedure

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 2011 GMC Yukon XL, 2011 GMC Yukon, 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe, 2011 Chevrolet Suburban, and 2011 Chevrolet Avalanche. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .
Remove the differential assembly. Refer to Differential Replacement (10.5 Inch Axle) , Differential Replacement (8.6, 9.5/9.5 LD Inch Axles) .
Remove the differential drive pinion gear. Refer to Drive Pinion and Ring Gear Replacement (10.5 Inch Axle) , Drive Pinion and Ring Gear Replacement (8.6, 9.5LD Inch Axles) .

Fig 1: Bearing And Drive Pinion

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

For the 8.6 inch axle, use the DT 47688 remover and a press remove the drive pinion bearing and the spacer.

Fig 2: Inner Pinion Bearing And Hydraulic Press

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

For the 9.5LD inch axle, use the J 22912-B puller and a press to remove the drive pinion bearing.

Fig 3: Outer Pinion Bearing Cup

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

NOTE:

When performing the following service procedure, move the drift back and forth between one side of the cup and the other in order to work the cups out of the housing evenly

Using a hammer and a brass drift in the slots provided, remove the outer pinion bearing cup from the axle housing.

Fig 4: Inner Pinion Bearing Cup

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

NOTE:

When performing the following service procedure, move the drift back and forth between one side of the cup and the other in order to work the cups out of the housing evenly

Using a hammer and a brass drift in the slots provided, remove the inner pinion bearing cup from the axle housing.