Warranty - Rear Axle Exchange Program, Noise Complaint: Overview
File In Section: 4 - Drive AxleBulletin No.: 47-42-01A
Date: January, 1996
EXCHANGE PROGRAM
Subject:
F Car Rear Axle Exchange Program (For Noise Related Concerns Only)
Models:
1996 Chevrolet Camaro
1996 Pontiac Firebird
This bulletin is being revised to add additional information. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 47-42-01 (Section 4 - Drive Axle).
To gain needed product feedback on the F Car rear axle, an exchange program is now in effect.
In the event your dealership receives a comment on a 1996 F Car rear axle, follow the procedures. Your cooperation will greatly improve the effectiveness of this program.
Your dealership may receive a rear axle noise comment, either gear or bearing related.
There are other noise conditions that may appear to be axle related, but will not necessitate an axle exchange in order to resolve the concern.
1. Fuel pump noise
2. Rear axle limited slip chatter
The fuel pump may produce a whine type noise when the engine is hot. This noise can be magnified by increasing the electrical load to the engine by cycling the power windows or by turning on the rear defogger. Refer to applicable service bulletins or preliminary information (PI), for fuel pump service procedures.
Rear axle limited slip chatter occurs when a vehicle is making a turn at low speeds. This chatter may sound similar to wheel hop. A complete proper axle lubricant flush and fill of the rear axle will eliminate this condition and will not require an exchange axle.
Rear axle flush and fill procedure:
1. Remove rear axle cover and gasket.
2. Drain all axle lubricant from housing.
3. Fully flush and clean the interior of the axle with brake parts cleaner spray.
Notice:
All internal components of the axle, ESPECIALLY THE LIMITED SLIP DIFFERENTIAL PARTS, must be brushed as part of the cleaning procedure in order to remove any residue from the original lubricant.
Caution:
Eye protection and rubber gloves must be worn when using brake parts cleaner spray. Also avoid breathing vapors from the brake parts cleaner spray.
4. Install rear axle cover and NEW gasket.
5. Torque cover fasteners to 30 N.m (22 lb ft).
6. Fill axle with the proper amount of lubricant and 188 ml (4 oz.) of additive as stated in the applicable service manual.
After you have verified the noise condition, and the above other possible conditions were not applicable, contact your Technical Assistance Department (TAC-TAN) to obtain an exchange axle per procedures shown.
DO NOT REMOVE AXLE CARRIER HOUSING COVER.