Rear Axle Housing Cover and Gasket Replacement (11 Inch Axle)
Rear Axle Housing Cover and Gasket Replacement (11 Inch Axle)
Removal Procedure
1. Raise the vehicle.
2. Clean the rear axle housing cover area.
3. Remove the fill plug.
4. Remove the rear axle housing cover bolts.
Place a container under the axle housing in order to retrieve the lubricant.
5. Remove the rear axle housing cover from the axle housing. Pry the rear axle housing cover loose.
6. Drain the lubricant from the axle housing.
7. Remove the sealant from the axle housing.
Installation Procedure
1. Apply an approximately 3.18-6.35 mm (1/8-1/4 in) high and 3.18-6.35 mm (1/8-1/4 in) wide bead of sealant, GM P/N 12346240 (Canadian P/N 10953493) or equivalent to the rear axle housing cover.
The sealant is to be applied in the middle of the rear axle housing cover flange and on the inside of all bolt hole openings as shown.
2. Install the rear axle housing cover.
Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.
3. Install the rear axle housing cover bolts.
Tighten
Tighten the rear axle housing cover bolts to 47 Nm (35 lb ft) in a crosswise pattern.
Important: Allow the sealant to cure for 1 hour before filling the axle with axle lubricant.
4. Fill the rear axle with axle lubricant. Use the proper fluid. Refer to Approximate Fluid Capacities and Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations Specifications.
5. Install the fill plug.
Tighten
Tighten the fill plug to 33 Nm (24 lb ft).
6. Lower the vehicle.