NOTE: This service procedure disturbs the pinion bearing preload
and this preload must be carefully reset when assembling.
- Raise the vehicle and support it safely.
- Remove the wheels and the brake drums.
- Mark the driveshaft and the axle companion flange so the driveshaft can
be reinstalled in the same position. Remove the driveshaft.
- Using an inch pound torque wrench on the pinion nut, record the torque required
to maintain rotation of the pinion through several revolutions.
- While holding the companion flange with a suitable tool, remove the pinion
nut. Mark the companion flange in relation to the pinion shaft so the flange
can be reinstalled in the same position.
- Using a suitable puller, remove the rear axle companion flange. Use a small
prybar to remove the seal from the carrier.
To install:
- Make sure the splines of the pinion shaft are free of burrs.
- Apply grease to the lips of the pinion seal and install, using a seal installer.
- Check the seal surface of the companion flange for scratches, nicks or a
groove. Replace the companion flange, as necessary. Apply a small amount of
lubricant to the splines. Align the mark on the flange with the mark on the
pinion shaft and install the companion flange.
NOTE: The companion flange must never be hammered on or
installed with power tools.
- Install a new nut on the pinion shaft. Hold the companion flange with a
suitable tool while tightening the nut.
- Tighten the pinion nut, rotating the pinion occasionally to ensure proper
bearing seating. Take frequent pinion bearing torque preload readings until
the original recorded preload reading is obtained.
NOTE: Under no circumstances should the pinion nut be backed
off to reduce preload. If reduced preload is required, a new collapsible
pinion spacer and pinion nut must be installed.
- Install the driveshaft and check the fluid level in the carrier. Lower the
vehicle.
