GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Front Differential Case Assemble 9.25 Inch Axle

Special Tools

    • J 8092 Universal Driver Handle - ¾ in - 10
    • J 29710 Differential Side Bearing Installer
    • J 36597 Side Bearing Puller Pilot - 9.25 in Axle
  1. Apply lubricate to the pinion and side gears using the correct lubricant. Refer to Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers.

  2. Object Number: 851734  Size: SH

    Note: If reusing the differential side gears and the thrust washers, install them in their the original locations.

  3. Install the thrust washers and the differential side gears into the differential case.

  4. Object Number: 851732  Size: SH
  5. Position both pinion gears between the differential side gears directly opposite of each other.
  6. Rotate the differential side gears until the pinion gears are opposite the opening in the differential case in line with the pinion shaft opening.
  7. Using a hammer and brass drift, install the thrust washers in between the pinion gear and differential case.
  8. Install the differential side gear spacers, if equipped.

  9. Object Number: 851733  Size: SH
  10. Install the pinion gear shaft.
  11. Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 851727  Size: SH
  12. Install the pinion shaft lock bolt.
  13. Tighten
    Tighten the pinion shaft lock bolt to 53 N·m (39 lb ft).


    Object Number: 866505  Size: SH

    Note: The mating surface of the ring gear and the differential case must be clean and free of burrs before installing the ring gear.

  14. Install the ring gear onto the differential case.

  15. Object Number: 866503  Size: SH

    Note: The ring gear bolts have left-hand threads.

  16. Hand start each of the NEW ring gear bolts.
  17. Note: Tighten the ring gear bolts alternately and in stages, gradually pulling the ring gear onto the differential case.

  18. Install the new ring gear bolts.
  19. Tighten
    Tighten the ring gear bolts in sequence to 138 N·m (102 lb ft).


    Object Number: 680453  Size: SH
  20. In order to protect the differential case, install the J 36597 in the case on the side opposite the bearing installation.
  21. Install the J 29710  (2) and the J 8092  (1) onto the differential case bearing as shown.
  22. Using the J 29710 and the J 8092 , install the differential case bearing onto the case.