Front Drive Axle

Removal Procedure

^ Tools Required
- J 8614-01 Pinion Yoke Holder

Important: Note the positions and accurately reference mark all driveline components relative to the disassembly of the propeller shaft and axles. These components include the propeller shafts, drive axles, pinion yokes and output shafts. The published specifications and torque values, as well as any measurements made prior to disassembly must also be followed. All components must be reassembled in the exact relationship to each other as when removed.

1. In order to free the steering linkage for movement, unlock the steering column.
2. Raise the vehicle. Support the vehicle with safety stands. Refer to Vehicle Lifting.
3. Remove the front wheels. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Wheels, Tires and Alignment.
4. Remove the front rotors. Refer to Brake Rotor Replacement - Front in Disc Brake Systems.





5. Remove the differential carrier shield, if equipped.
6. Remove the differential carrier shield bracket.
7. Remove the front propeller shaft. Refer to Propeller Shaft Replacement - Front in Drive/Propeller Shafts, Bearings & Joints.





8. Measure the amount of torque required to rotate the pinion. Use an inch-pound torque wrench. Record this measurement for reassembly. This will provide the combined preload for the following components:
^ The pinion bearings
^ The pinion seal
^ The carrier bearings
^ The axle bearings
^ The axle seals
^ The wheel drive shafts
^ The wheel bearings
9. Draw two arrows pointing at each other. One on the pinion stem and the other on the pinion yoke.
10. Record the number of exposed threads on the pinion stem for reference.





11. Remove the pinion yoke nut and washer, using J 8614-01 in order to secure the yoke.





12. Remove the pinion yoke using J 8614-01. Provide a suitable container to catch the lubricant.

Installation Procedure

^ Tools Required
- J 8614-01 Pinion Yoke Holder





1. Apply sealant (GM P/N 12346004 or equivalent) to the inside sealing surface of the pinion yoke.
2. Apply special seal lubricant (GM P/N 12377985 or equivalent) to the outside sealing surface of the pinion yoke and the sealing lip of the seal.

Notice: Do not hammer the pinion flange/yoke onto the pinion shaft. Pinion components may be damaged if the pinion flange/yoke is hammered onto the pinion shaft.

Important: Install the pinion yoke in the same position as marked during removal to maintain driveline balance.

3. Install the pinion yoke by tapping it with a soft-faced hammer until a few pinion shaft threads show through the yoke.

Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.

Important: Reference the number of exposed threads on the pinion shaft recorded during removal.

4. Install the washer and a new nut using J 8614-01.
^ Tighten the nut until the pinion end play is just taken up. Rotate the pinion while tightening the nut to seat the bearings.





Important: If the rotating torque is exceeded, the pinion will have to be removed and a new collapsible spacer installed.

5. Measure the torque required to rotate the pinion using an inch-pound torque wrench. Compare this value with the torque recorded during removal.
^ Tighten the pinion shaft nut in small increments, as needed, until the rotating torque is 0.40 - 0.57 Nm (3 - 5 inch lbs.) greater than the rotating torque recorded during removal.
6. Once the specified torque is obtained, rotate the pinion several times to ensure the bearings have seated. Recheck the rotating torque and adjust if necessary.
7. Install the propeller shaft. Refer to Propeller Shaft Replacement - Front in Drive/Propeller Shafts, Bearings & Joints. Align the marks made during removal. Components must be reassembled in the same position.
8. Inspect the axle lubricant level. Add lubricant as necessary. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations.





9. Install the differential carrier shield bracket, if equipped.
^ Tighten the bolt to 103 Nm (76 ft. lbs.).
10. Install the differential carrier shield.
^ Tighten the bolts to 25 Nm (18 ft. lbs.).
11. Install the front rotors. Refer to Brake Rotor Replacement - Front in Disc Brake Systems.
12. Install the front wheels. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Wheels, Tires and Alignment.
13. Lower the vehicle.