Testing Procedure

2004 Oldsmobile Bravada RWDSECTION Testing Procedure
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 9 other vehicles, including the 2002 GMC Yukon XL, 2002 GMC Yukon, 2002 GMC Sierra, 2002 Chevrolet Tahoe, and 2002 Chevrolet Suburban. 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 differential carrier 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. IMPORTANT: Avoid turning the ring gear excessively.
  4. Using a wrench, turn the drive pinion flange/yoke so that the ring gear rotates at least 3 full revolutions.
  5. Turn the drive pinion flange/yoke in the opposite direction so that the ring gear rotates at least 3 full revolutions in the opposite direction.
  6. Observe the pattern on the ring gear teeth. Compare the pattern with the following illustrations.
    Fig 1: Identifying Pattern On Ring Gear Teeth
    G01455980Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
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.