GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 42055 Transmission Support Fixture

Removal Procedure

Notice: Failure to follow the proper removal and installation procedures may result in damage to the engine crankshaft thrust bearing.

Notice: When tilting down the rear of the driveline, observe the clearance between the rear of the engine and the composite dash panel. Do not allow the engine to rest unsupported against the composite dash panel, or vehicle damage may result.

Notice: When lowering and removing the rear of the driveline, observe the clearance between the rear of the transaxle assembly and the underbody to prevent damage.


    Object Number: 321407  Size: SH
  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .
  2. Remove the differential to transmission lower nut.
  3. (Removing the nut at this time will aid in separating the differential from the transmission after the driveline has been removed from the vehicle.)

  4. Remove the driveline support assembly. Refer to Driveline Support Assembly Replacement .

  5. Object Number: 71442  Size: SH
  6. Remove the transmission to driveline support assembly bolts/studs.
  7. Insert a flat bladed screwdriver, or similar tool, between the edge of the driveline support assembly and the transmission, then begin to pry the driveline support assembly loose from the transmission.
  8. Slowly slide the driveline support assembly away from the transmission while supporting the transmission torque converter.
  9. Using a strap positioned from side to side, secure the transmission torque converter to the transmission.

  10. Object Number: 71505  Size: SH
  11. Remove the differential to transmission bolts and nuts.
  12. Important: Use care when separating the differential from the transmission to not damage the transmission output shaft seal in the differential plate.

  13. SLOWLY slide the differential from the transmission.

  14. Object Number: 71504  Size: SH
  15. Remove the differential plate from the differential.
  16. Remove the transmission from the J 42055 , if necessary.
  17. Flush the transmission oil cooler. Refer to Transmission Fluid Cooler Flushing and Flow Test .

Installation Procedure

Notice: Failure to follow the proper removal and installation procedures may result in damage to the engine crankshaft thrust bearing.


    Object Number: 194916  Size: SH
  1. Install the transmission to the J 42055 , if removed.
  2. Install the differential plate to the transmission, use care not to damage the transmission output seal in the rear of the plate.
  3. Position the differential plate seal flush with the transmission case.

  4. Object Number: 71505  Size: SH
  5. SLOWLY slide the differential to the transmission.
  6. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.

  7. Install the differential to transmission bolts and nuts.
  8. Tighten
    Tighten the differential to transmission bolts and nuts to 50 N·m (37 lb ft).

  9. Install the driveline support assembly. Refer to Driveline Support Assembly Replacement .

  10. Object Number: 71455  Size: SH
  11. Install the engine flywheel housing access plug.
  12. Lower the vehicle.
  13. Check the transmission fluid level. Refer to Transmission Fluid Check .
  14. Road test the vehicle.
  15. Inspect for fluid leaks.
  16. Perform a final inspection for the proper fluid level.