Lubricant Replacement - Rear Drive Axle (8.6 Inch Axle)

Lubricant Replacement - Rear Drive Axle (8.6 Inch Axle)
Removal Procedure
1. Raise the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle.





2. Remove the rear axle fill plug.





3. Remove the rear axle housing cover bolts (1). Discard the rear axle housing cover bolts.

4. Carefully remove the rear axle housing cover (2) and drain the lubricant into a suitable container.

5. Remove any gasket material from the rear axle housing and/or the rear axle housing cover.

6. Inspect the bottom of the rear axle housing for excessive metal particle accumulation. This accumulation is an indication of extreme wear.

Installation Procedure





1. Install a new gasket and the rear axle housing cover (2).

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.

Important: Do not reuse the rear axle housing cover bolts.

2. Install the new rear axle housing cover bolts (1).
^ Tighten the bolts to 40 Nm (30 lb ft).

3. Fill the rear axle. Use the proper fluid.





4. Install the rear axle fill plug.

^ Tighten the rear axle fill plug to 33 Nm (24 lb ft).

5. Lower the vehicle.