Removal 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 rear axle shafts. Refer to Rear Axle Shaft and/or Gasket Replacement .
Remove the rear axle housing cover and the 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) .

Fig 1: Differential Bearing Adjuster Nut Lock

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Remove the differential bearing adjuster nut retainers.

Fig 2: Bearing Cap Bolt

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

NOTE:

Mark the bearing caps left and right.

Remove the bearing caps and bolts.

WARNING:

To prevent personal injury and/or component damage, support the differential case when removing the case from the axle housing. If the case is not supported, the differential case could fall and cause personal injury or damage to the differential case.

CAUTION:

When removing the differential case from the axle housing, do not damage the cover gasket surface. If the cover gasket surface is damaged, lubricant may leak from the axle and cause premature failure of the axle assembly.

Using the J 24429 spanner, loosen the adjusters.

Fig 3: Differential Case And Axle Housing

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Remove the differential assembly.

NOTE:

Mark the cups left and right and place the cups with the bearing caps.

Remove the bearing cups.
Remove the differential side bearings, if necessary. Refer to Differential Bearing Replacement .
Remove 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) .