Seals and Gaskets: Service and Repair

Removal Procedure

^ Tools Required
- J28712 Drive Axle Boot Protectors

1. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Vehicle Lifting.
2. Place a drain pan or a suitable container under the transaxle fluid pan.






3. Remove the transaxle drain plug (1) from the transaxle fluid pan (3), and drain the fluid fluid.
4. Install J28712 to the wheel-side joints of the drive axle and to the differential-side joints of the drive axle.
5. Remove the drive axle assembly from the vehicle. Refer to Wheel Drive Shafts Replacement.
6. Remove the fluid seal from the transaxle.
7. Inspect the differential-side joint surface where the drive axle makes contact with the fluid seal of the drive axle shaft.
The surface should be smooth and free of any damage.
If damage to the differential-side joint is evident, replace the differential-side joint.

Installation Procedure

^ Tools Required
- J35538 Axle Shaft Seal Installer
- J28712 Drive Axle Boot Protector






1. Install the new seal into the transaxle using the J35538.
2. Install the drive axle assembly into the vehicle. Refer to Wheel Drive Shafts Replacement.
3. Remove the J28712 from the wheel-side joints of the drive axle and from the differential-side joints of the drive axle.
4. Apply GM P/N 12346004, or the equivalent, to the threaded portion of the transaxle drain plug.

Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.

5. Install the transaxle drain plug into the transaxle fluid pan.
Tighten the transaxle drain plug to 23 Nm (17 ft. lbs.).
6. Lower the vehicle.
7. Refill the transaxle, as necessary. Refer to Transmission Fluid Checking Procedure.