GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 392514  Size: SH
  1. Unlock the steering column so the steering linkage is free to move.
  2. Remove the shifter cable from the front differential. Refer to Shift Cable Replacement .
  3. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  4. Remove the 2 front tire and wheel assemblies. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  5. Remove the steering linkage shield. Refer to Steering Linkage Shield Replacement in Steering Linkage.
  6. Remove the differential carrier shield. Refer to Shield Replacement .
  7. Remove the lower part of the shock absorber bolt and nut. Refer to Upper Control Arm Ball Joint Replacement in Front Suspension.
  8. Drain the lubricant from the carrier. Refer to Lubricant Change .
  9. Disconnect the electrical connector from the front differential indicator switch.

  10. Object Number: 392514  Size: SH
  11. Remove the differential shifter cable housing.
  12. Remove the vent hose. Refer to Vent Hose Replacement .
  13. Remove the steering relay rod from the idler and pitman arms. Refer to Relay Rod Replacement in Steering Linkage.
  14. Remove the front propeller shaft. Refer to Front Propeller Shaft Replacement in Propeller Shaft.
  15. Suitably support the front differential.
  16. Remove the right and left wheel drive shafts. Refer to Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement in Wheel Drive Shafts.

  17. Object Number: 6833  Size: SH
  18. Remove the differential carrier assembly from the frame. Roll the carrier counterclockwise while lifting up in order to gain clearance from the mounting ears.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 6833  Size: SH
  1. Install the carrier assembly to the vehicle.
  2. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  3. Install the tube bolts and mounting nuts.
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 103 N·m (76 lb ft) or the nuts to 75 N·m (55 lb ft).

  5. Install the upper mounting bolt, the washer, and the nut.
  6. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 48 N·m (36 lb ft).

  7. Install the front propeller shaft retainers and bolts. Refer to Front Propeller Shaft Replacement in Propeller Shaft.
  8. Install the right and left drive axles. Refer to Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement in Wheel Drive Shafts.
  9. Install the vent hose. Refer to Vent Hose Replacement .
  10. Install the idler and pitman arms to the steering relay rod. Refer to Relay Rod Replacement in Steering Linkage.

  11. Object Number: 392514  Size: SH
  12. Install the differential shifter cable housing.
  13. Connect the electrical connector to the indicator switch.
  14. Install the lower part of the shock absorber bolt and nut. Refer to Upper Control Arm Ball Joint Replacement in Front Suspension
  15. Check the axle lubricant level. Add if necessary. Refer to Lubricant Level Check .
  16. Install the steering linkage shield. Refer to Steering Linkage Shield Replacement in Steering Linkage.
  17. Install the differential shield. Refer to Shield Replacement .
  18. Install the steering linkage shield. Refer to Steering Linkage Shield Replacement in Steering Linkage.
  19. Install the tire and wheel assemblies. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  20. Remove the safety stands and lower the vehicle.