Drive Pinion Yoke Replacement

^ Tools Required
- J8614-01 Flange/Pulley Holder Tool
Removal Procedure

Important: Note the positions and accurately reference mark all driveline components relative to the disassembly of the propeller shaft and axles. These components include the following items:
^ The propeller shafts
^ The drive axles
^ The pinion flanges
^ The output shafts

Follow the published specifications and torque values, as well as any measurements obtained prior to disassembly. Reassemble all of the components in the exact relationship to each other as when removed.

1. In order to free the steering linkage for movement, unlock the steering column. Raise the vehicle. Support the vehicle with safety stands. Refer to Vehicle Lifting.
3. Remove the front differential shield. Refer to Shield Replacement.
4. Remove the left front differential shield bracket.
5. Accurately mark the propeller shaft and pinion flange.
6. Remove the bolts from the propeller shaft flange to the front axle. Refer to Double Cardan Universal Joints Replacement (Centering Ball Replacement) or Double Cardan Universal Joints Replacement (Ball Seat Assembly). Remove the front propeller shaft. Refer to the appropriate procedure:
^ Propeller Shaft Replacement-Rear
^ Propeller Shaft Replacement-Front
^ Propeller Shaft Replacement-Two Piece

Important: Note the pinion preload torque for reassembly.

8. Inspect the differential drive pinion bearing preload.
^ If there is no reading, inspect the drive pinion gear for looseness by shaking the gear.
^ When operating the rear axle for an extended period of time with loose bearings or a worn yoke, you will need to replace the ring and pinion gear.

9. Inspect the pinion assembly for looseness by moving the pinion back and forth. Looseness indicates excessive bearing wear.





10. Remove the pinion flange nut and washer, using the J8614-01 in order to secure the flange.
11. Remove the pinion flange using the J8614-01. Provide a suitable container in order to catch the lubricant.

Installation Procedure
1. Apply special seal lubricant (GM P/N1052366 or equivalent) to the outside of the pinion flange.
2. Install the new pinion flange.





3. Install the washer and a new nut using the J8614-01.
4. Tighten the nut until the pinion end play is just taken up. Rotate the pinion while tightening the nut in order to seat the bearings. When no end play is present in the pinion, inspect the preload torque.
5. Remove the J8614-01. Inspect the pinion preload torque wrench. Preload should be at or below 2.7 - 3.6 Nm (24 - 32 inch lbs.) on new bearings. or within 1.0 - 1.4 Nm (8 - 12 inch lbs.) for used bearings.
6. If the preload torque is below the specified values, continue torquing the nut in small increments. Inspect the preload after each tightening. Each tighten increases the bearing preload by several hundred pounds. If the bearing preload is exceeded remove the pinion and install a new collapsible spacer.
7. Once the specified preload has been obtained, rotate the pinion several times in order to ensure that the bearings have seated. Recheck the preload, and adjust if necessary.
8. Install the propeller shaft. Refer to the appropriate procedure:
^ Propeller Shaft Replacement-Rear
^ Propeller Shaft Replacement-Front
^ Propeller Shaft Replacement-Two Piece

Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.

9. Install the bolts to the flange.
^ Tighten the bolts to 75 Nm (55 ft. lbs.).
10. Inspect the axle lubricant level. Add lubricant as necessary. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations.
11. Install the left front differential shield bracket.
12. Install the front differential shield. Refer to Shield Replacement.