Testing Procedure

2004 Oldsmobile Bravada RWDSECTION Testing 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. Wipe clean the differential case, the ring gear and the axle housing of lubricant. Carefully clean each tooth of the ring gear.
  2. Use a medium stiff brush in order to sparingly apply gear marking compound, GM P/N 1052351 (Canadian P/N 10953497) or equivalent, to all of the ring gear teeth.
  3. Torque the bearing caps bolts to specification.
    IMPORTANT: Performing a test without loading the gears will not produce a satisfactory pattern.
  4. Apply the park brake until a torque load of 14 N.m (10 lb ft) is required in order to turn the pinion.
    IMPORTANT: Avoid turning the ring gear excessively.
  5. Using a wrench, turn the drive pinion flange/yoke so that the ring gear rotates 3 full revolutions.
    Fig 1: Applying Gear Marking Compound
    G01597921Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  6. Turn the drive pinion flange/yoke in the opposite direction so that the ring gear rotates 3 full revolutions in the opposite direction.
  7. Observe the pattern on the ring gear teeth. Compare the pattern with the following illustrations.
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.