Gears and Shafts

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Pontiac Torrent and 2009 Chevrolet Equinox. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Inspecting Ring Gear

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Clean the gears and shafts in solvent.
The ring gear and pinion must be inspected for proper wear and pattern.
- The end of the gear tooth farthest away from center of ring gear (1) is the heel end of the tooth.
- The end of the gear tooth nearest center of ring gear (2) is the toe end of the tooth.
- The side of the tooth that curves inward or is concave (3) is considered the coast side of the tooth.
- The side of the tooth that curves outward or is convex (4) is considered the drive side of the tooth.

Fig 2: Inspecting Pinion Flange For Wear, Damage Bolt Threads & Worn or Damaged Splines

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Inspect the pinion flange seating surface (2) for wear, damaged bolt threads (3) and worn or damaged splines (1).