Installation Procedure
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- Install the ring gear, if necessary. Refer to Drive Pinion and Ring Gear Replacement (10.5 Inch Axle) , Drive Pinion and Ring Gear Replacement (8.6, 9.5LD Inch Axles) .
- Install the differential side bearings, if necessary. Refer to Differential Bearing Replacement .
- Lubricate the differential side bearings with axle lubricant. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations .
- Place the case, with the bearing cups installed, into the axle housing.
- Install the bearing caps and the bolts.
- Using the J 24429 spanner, turn the adjusters evenly on each side until snug against the differential.
- Adjust the differential side bearing preload. Refer to Differential Carrier Bearing Preload Adjustment (8.6 Inch Axle) , Differential Carrier Bearing Preload Adjustment (9.5LD Inch Axle) , Differential Carrier Bearing Preload Adjustment (10.5 Inch Axle) .
- Adjust the backlash. Refer to Backlash Adjustment (10.5 Inch Axle) , Backlash Adjustment (9.5 LD Axle) , Backlash Adjustment (8.6 Inch Axle) .
- Perform a gear tooth contact pattern check. Refer to Gear Tooth Contact Pattern Inspection .
- Tighten the bearing cap bolts to 185 N.m (136 lb ft).
- Install the axle shafts and new gaskets. Refer to Rear Axle Shaft and/or Gasket Replacement .
- Install the rear axle housing cover and a new gasket. Refer to Rear Axle Housing Cover and Gasket Replacement (8.6, 9.5 Inch Axles) , Rear Axle Housing Cover and Gasket Replacement (10.5 Inch Axle) .
- Fill the axle with the proper lubricant. Refer to Approximate Fluid Capacities , and Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations .
- Remove the lower the vehicle.
NOTE:
Support the case in order to keep the case from falling out of the axle housing.
NOTE:
Do not torque the bearing cap bolts at this time.
CAUTION:
Refer to Fastener Caution .