Special Tools

1. Raise and support vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle.
2. Remove the exhaust system. Refer to Exhaust System Replacement.
3. Remove the propeller shaft. Refer to Rear Propeller Shaft Replacement.



4. Use the J 45012 to hold the pinion flange.
5. Using the J 34826 , remove the drive pinion nut.



6. Using the J 45019 , remove the flange.
7. Using a flat-bladed tool, remove the drive pinion seal. Take care not to damage any sealing surfaces.

Important: Ensure the pinion bore is free of dirt debris.

1. Apply a small amount of synthetic gear oil GM P/N 12378514 (Canadian P/N 88901045) or equivalent to the drive pinion flange sealing surface of the drive pinion seal.



2. Using the J 42851  (1), install the pinion seal (2) to the differential housing (3).



3. Install the J 45012 on the drive pinion shaft.
4. Install the pinion flange on the drive pinion shaft.

Important: The pinion shaft threads and the pinion flange nut must be free of residue and debris prior to the application of the threadlocker.

5. Thoroughly clean the residue from the pinion shaft threads and the pinion flange nut by using denatured alcohol or equivalent and allow to dry.
6. Apply threadlocker GM P/N 12345382 (Canadian P/N 10953489), or equivalent to 2/3 of the threaded length of the pinion shaft threads. Ensure that there are no gaps in the threadlocker along the length of the filled area of the pinion shaft threads.
7. Allow the threadlocker to cure approximately 10 minutes before installation.
8. Use the J 45012 to hold the pinion flange.

Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.

9. Using the J 34826 , tighten the drive pinion nut.

Tighten
Tighten the pinion flange nut to 245 N·m (181 lb ft).

10. Install the propeller shaft. Refer to Rear Propeller Shaft Replacement.
11. Inspect the fluid level. Refer to Rear Axle Lubricant Level Inspection.
12. Install the exhaust system. Refer to Exhaust System Replacement.
13. Lower the vehicle.