GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

J 8614-01 Pinion Flange Holder

  1. Remove the rear wheels and drums.
  2. Important: You must observe and reference mark the positions of all the driveline components relative to the propeller shaft and the axles prior to disassembly. These components include the propeller shafts, drive axles, pinion flanges, output shafts, etc. Reassemble all components in the exact relationship to each other as the parts were when you removed the parts. Follow any specifications, torque values, and any measurements made prior to disassembly.

  3. Mark the installed position of the rear propeller shaft.

  4. Object Number: 1491  Size: SH
  5. Remove the bolts and retainers.

  6. Object Number: 1492  Size: SH
  7. Remove the propeller shaft.
  8. Use a piece of tape in order to hold the bearing caps.
  9. Secure the propeller shaft up and out of the way minimizing stress on the universal joints.
  10. Make an alignment mark on the pinion stem, the pinion flange, and the pinion flange nut. Record the number of exposed threads on the pinion stem for reference.

  11. Object Number: 1493  Size: SH
  12. Remove the pinion flange nut and washer. Hold the pinion flange with J 8614-01 .

  13. Object Number: 1494  Size: SH
  14. Remove the pinion flange using J 8614-01. Use a container in order to retrieve the lubricant.

Installation Procedure

Tools Required

J 8614-01 Companion Flange Holder


    Object Number: 1495  Size: SH
  1. Apply lubricant to the outside of the pinion flange.
  2. Important: Do not hammer the pinion flange onto the pinion stem.

  3. Install the pinion flange.

  4. Object Number: 1496  Size: SH

    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.

  5. Install the washer and a new nut.
  6. Tighten
    Tighten the nut on the pinion stem to the original marks then 1.59 mm (1/16 in) beyond the marks. Use the reference mark and the thread count as a reference. Tighten the nut a little at a time and turn the pinion flange several times after each tightening in order to set the rollers.


    Object Number: 1498  Size: SH
  7. Align the propeller shaft with the alignment marks made previously.
  8. Install the propeller shaft.
  9. 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.

  10. Install the retainers and bolts.
  11. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 45 N·m (33 lb ft)

  12. Install the drums and the wheels.
  13. Replenish the rear axle with new lubricant as needed.