Replacement

Removal Procedure





1. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Vehicle Lifting.
2. Remove the 4 bolts and the front skid plate from the vehicle if it is equipped.
3. Place a drain pan or suitable container under the front axle housing.
4. Remove the front axle oil level/filler plug (1) from the front axle housing.
5. Remove the front axle housing drain plug (2) and drain the front axle oil.
6. Remove the front axle housing assembly. Refer to Front Axle Housing Replacement.





7. Remove the 6 differential carrier bolts (1) and the 2 reamer bolts from the front axle housing..
8. Clean the differential carrier and the front axle housing mating surfaces.
9. Inspect the differential carrier. Refer to Differential Carrier Assembly - Assemble


Installation Procedure





1. Apply RTV silicone sealer GM P/N 1052917, or the equivalent, to the differential carrier mating surface on the front axle housing.
2. Install the differential carrier (1) into the front axle housing (2).





3. Install the 6 differential carrier bolts (2) and the 2 reamer bolts (1).

Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice Service Precautions.

4. Secure the 6 carrier bolts and the 2 reamer bolts.
^ Tighten the differential carrier bolts to 23 Nm (17 ft. lbs.).
5. Install the front axle housing into the vehicle. Refer to Front Axle Housing Replacement.





6. Install the front axle housing drain plug (2) into the front axle housing.
^ Tighten the front axle housing drain plug to 23 Nm (17 ft. lbs.).
7. Refill the front axle housing with approximately 1 liter (1.8 pints) of 80W-90 GLS lubricant GM P/N 12345977, or the equivalent.
8. Install the front axle housing oil level/filler plug (1) into the front axle housing.
^ Tighten the front axle housing oil level/filler plug to 40 Nm (30 ft. lbs.).
9. Install the front skid plate, if equipped, to the vehicle.
10. Secure the front skid plate with 4 bolts.
^ Tighten the front skid plate bolts to 54 Nm (40 ft. lbs.).
11. Lower the vehicle.