DRIVE AXLE SEALS REVISED DESIGN IDENT-P/N

MODELS AFFECTED: 1984 RIVIERAS AND 1985 ELECTRAS

New drive axle seals have been released for 1985 model production. The new seals have six (6) convolutes; the original seals had three (3) convolutes. Refer to Figure 1. The new seals are held in place with a strap-type clamp and require use of Drive Axle Boot Clamp tool no. J-34773 or equivalent. Refer to Figure 2. Kent-Moore Clamp Tool no. J-34773 will be part of the 1985 Special Tool Program.

The drive axle assembly and some components are new for 1985 in conjunction with the new boot seals. Individual part numbers will be listed in GMWDD catalog updates.

A few 1985 drive axle assemblies with the new boot seals were used in June 1984 production of some 1984 Rivieras and some 1985 Electras with serial numbers from F1433013 through F1433184.

It is important, when servicing the drive axle seals, that type of seals be determined,so that the correct service parts are obtained.

Drive axles with thermoplastic boot seals will be used on all 1985 front wheel drive vehicles, except on some Electras, as stated above. Also, some Centurys, Skylarks, and Skyhawks, use silicone boot seals on certain applications on the inner joint. The silicone seal has three (3) convolutes and is grey in color. The thermoplastic seal has six (6) convolutes and is black.Refer to GMWDD parts catalogs for service part numbers.

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.