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HOMESERVICE MANUALSOLDSMOBILE2004BRAVADA AWDREPAIR AND DIAGNOSISEXTERNAL PAGESDIFFERENT CARSECTION 1786 (REAR DRIVE AXLE)REPAIR INSTRUCTIONSDIFFERENTIAL REPLACEMENTINSTALLATION PROCEDURE
2004 Oldsmobile Bravada AWD

Installation Procedure

2004 Oldsmobile Bravada AWDSECTION Installation Procedure
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2005 Isuzu Ascender, 2005 GMC Envoy XUV, 2005 GMC Envoy XL, 2005 GMC Envoy, and 2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Install the ring gear, if necessary. Refer to Drive Pinion and Ring Gear Replacement .
  2. Install the differential side bearings, if necessary. Refer to Differential Side Bearings Replacement .
  3. Lubricate the differential side bearings with axle lubricant. Use the proper fluid. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations in Maintenance and Lubrication.
    4. Fig 1: Installing J 45222 Onto Axle Housing
    GM788484Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  4. Install the J 45222  onto the axle housing as shown.
    5. Fig 2: J 8001-1, J 8001-2, J 34178, & J 8001-3
    GM788485Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  5. Install the J 8001-1 (2), the J 8001-2 (3), the J 34178  (4, 6), and the J 8001-3 (5) as shown.
  6. Preload the J 8001-3 (5) approximately 3/4 of a turn clockwise.
  7. Rotate the indicator housing to align the indicator needle of the J 8001-3 (5) and the dial indicator face to ZERO.
  8. Spread the axle housing by turning the clevis screw of the J 34178  while observing the J 8001-3.

    Spread the housing just enough to install the differential assembly. Do not spread the housing more than 1.02 mm (0.040 in).

    9. Fig 3: View Of Differential Case And Axle Housing
    GM667660Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  9. Place the case, with the bearing cups installed, into the axle housing.

    Support the case in order to keep the case from falling out of the axle housing.

    10. Fig 4: View Of Bearing Caps Bolts
    GM788491Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  10. Install the bearing caps and the bolts.

    Do not torque the bearing cap bolts at this time.

  11. Adjust the differential side bearing preload. Refer to Differential Side Bearing Preload Adjustment .
  12. Adjust the backlash. Refer to Backlash Adjustment (7.6, 8.6 Inch Axle) .
  13. Perform a gear tooth contact pattern check. Refer to Gear Tooth Contact Pattern Inspection .
    14. NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice in Cautions and Notices.
  14. Tighten the bearing cap bolts.

    Tighten:  Tighten the bearing cap bolts to 75 N.m (55 lb ft).

  15. Install the axle shafts. Refer to Rear Axle Shaft Replacement .
  16. Install the rear axle tie rod. Refer to Rear Axle Tie Rod Replacement in Rear Suspension.
  17. Install the spare tire.
  18. 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.