Chevrolet Silverado / GMC Sierra. Manual — part 1380

Tighten: Tighten the differential adjuster nut to 75 N.m (55 lb ft).

30. Rotate the pinion several times in order to seat the pinion and differential side bearings.

31. Measure the rotating torque of the drive pinion and differential assembly using an inch-

pound torque wrench.

Specification: The rotating torque of the pinion and differential assembly should be 0.57-
1.13 N.m (5-10 lb in) greater than the rotating torque of the drive pinion measured earlier.

32. If the rotating torque of the drive pinion and differential assembly is not 0.57-1.13 N.m (5-

10 lb in) greater than the rotating torque of the drive pinion, adjust the differential side
bearing preload using the following steps:

1. Place an alignment mark between the differential adjuster nut sleeve and the

differential carrier case, left and right sides.

2. Using the J 36599-A , turn the left and right side differential adjuster sleeves in or

clockwise one notch. See Special Tools.

3. Using an inch pound torque wrench, measure the rotating torque of the pinion and

differential assembly.

4. Compare the new measurement to the specification listed in Step 31. If the rotating

torque of the pinion and differential assembly is not within specifications, continue to
tighten the left and right side differential adjuster nut sleeves one notch on each side
until the rotating torque of the pinion and differential assembly is within specifications.

33. If the rotating torque of the drive pinion and differential assembly is more than 1.13 N.m

(10 lb in) above the rotating torque of the drive pinion measurement, adjust the differential
side bearing preload using the following steps:

1. Place an alignment mark between the differential adjuster nut sleeve and the

differential carrier case, left and right sides.

2. Using the J 36599-A or the J 36615 , turn the left and right side differential adjuster

nut sleeve out or clockwise one notch. See Special Tools.

3. Using a torque wrench, measure the rotating torque of the pinion and differential

assembly.

4. Compare the new measurement to the specification listed in Step 31. If the rotating

torque of the pinion and differential assembly is not within specifications, continue to
loosen the left and right side differential adjuster nut sleeve one notch at a time on each
side until the rotating torque of the pinion and differential assembly is within
specifications.

34. Once the specified rotating is obtained, rotate the pinion several times to ensure the bearings

have seated. Recheck the rotating torque and adjust if necessary.

2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

2008 Driveline/Axle Front Drive Axle - Cab & Chassis Sierra, Cab & Chassis Silverado, Sierra & Silverado