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HOMESERVICE MANUALSOLDSMOBILE2004BRAVADA RWDREPAIR AND DIAGNOSISEXTERNAL PAGESDIFFERENT CARSECTION 1436 (REAR DRIVE AXLE)REPAIR INSTRUCTIONSDIFFERENTIAL REPLACEMENTINSTALLATION PROCEDURE
2004 Oldsmobile Bravada RWD

Installation Procedure

2004 Oldsmobile Bravada RWDSECTION Installation Procedure
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Oldsmobile Bravada, 2003 GMC Envoy XL, 2003 GMC Envoy, and 2003 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. Install the J 45222  onto the axle housing as shown.
    Fig 1: Installing J 45222
    G01597902Courtesy 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).

    Fig 2: Installing J 8001-1 (2), J 8001-2 (3), J 34178 (4, 6), And J 8001-3 (5)
    G01597903Courtesy 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.

    Fig 3: Placing Case, With Bearing Cups Installed, Into Axle Housing
    G01597904Courtesy 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   . 
  13. Perform a gear tooth contact pattern check. Refer to GEAR TOOTH CONTACT PATTERN INSPECTION   . 
    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   . 
    Fig 4: Installing Bearing Caps And Bolts
    G01597905Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  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

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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.