Differential Replacement

2012 Chevrolet Traverse AWD V6-3.6LSECTION Differential Replacement



Differential Replacement

Removal Procedure

1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle Service and Repair.

2. Remove the tires and wheels. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation Service and Repair.

3. Drain the rear differential assembly. Refer to Axle Lubricant Change Removal and Replacement.

4. Remove the rear wheel drive shafts. Refer to Rear Wheel Drive Shaft and Rear Axle Shaft Seal Replacement Rear Wheel Drive Shaft and Rear Axle Shaft Seal Replacement.

5. Remove the propeller shaft assembly. Refer to Propeller Shaft Replacement Service and Repair.





6. Remove the front torque tube mounting bracket bolt.





7. Lower the front of the torque tube to gain access to the electronic clutch control module.





8. Disconnect the electrical connector from the electronic clutch control module.

9. Support the torque tube with a jack stand.

10. Support the rear differential assembly with a transmission jack.





11. Remove the rear differential drive mounting bolts.





12. With the aide of an assistant, remove the rear differential assembly from the vehicle.

13. Remove the torque tube assembly mounting bolts from the rear differential assembly. Refer to Driveline Torque Tube Replacement Driveline Torque Tube Replacement.

Installation Procedure

1. Install the torque tube assembly to the rear differential assembly. Refer to Driveline Torque Tube Replacement Driveline Torque Tube Replacement.





2. Position the rear differential in the vehicle.





Caution:
Refer to Fastener Caution Fastener Caution.

3. Install the rear differential mounting bolts.

Tighten the bolts to 160 Nm (118 lb ft).





4. Reconnect the electrical connector for the electronic clutch control module.





5. Lift the torque tube into position.





6. Install the torque tube bolt.

Tighten the bolt to 185 Nm (137 lb ft).

7. Install the propeller shaft assembly. Refer to Propeller Shaft Replacement Service and Repair.

8. Refill the rear differential assembly. Refer to Axle Lubricant Change Removal and Replacement.

9. Install the rear wheel drive shaft. Refer to Rear Wheel Drive Shaft and Rear Axle Shaft Seal Replacement Rear Wheel Drive Shaft and Rear Axle Shaft Seal Replacement.

10. Install the tires and wheels. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation Service and Repair.

11. Remove the support and lower the vehicle.

RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.