Testing Procedure

2008 Pontiac Grand Prix BaseSECTION Testing Procedure
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Hummer H2. 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. Fig 1: Ring Gear Teeth Pattern
    GM893265Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  3. 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.
  4. IMPORTANT: Avoid turning the ring gear excessively.
  5. Using a wrench, turn the drive pinion flange/yoke so that the ring gear rotates at least 3 full revolutions.
  6. 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.
  7. Observe the pattern on the ring gear teeth. Compare the pattern with the following illustrations.
  8. Once the proper pattern is obtained, continue the assembly of differential carrier. Refer to Differential Carrier Assembly Assemble .
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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.