H3 V8-5.3L (2008)
Add the measurements together in order to determine the total shim pack thickness.
28. Install the differential assembly with the differential side bearings and the differential side bearing cups.
29. Install the left side service spacer between the axle housing and the differential assembly.
30. Install the left side selective service shim or shims.
The service shim or shims must be installed between the service spacer and the differential side bearing cup.
31. Install the right side service spacer between the axle housing and the differential assembly.
32. Install the right side selective service shim or shims using the J 25588 , if necessary.
The service shim or shims must be installed between the service spacer and the differential side bearing cup.
33. Install the differential bearing caps and the bolts.
Tighten the differential bearing cap bolts to 63 N.m (46 lb ft).
34. Measure the drive pinion and differential side bearing preload using an inch-pound torque wrench.
Rotate the pinion several times to ensure the differential side bearings have seated.
The rotating torque of the drive pinion and differential side bearings should be 0.57-1.13 N.m (5-105 lb in) greater than the rotating
torque of the drive pinion measured earlier.
Record the measurement.
35. Calculate the differential side bearing preload by subtracting the drive pinion preload, measured in Step 2, from the drive pinion and differential
case bearing preload, measured in Step 33.
Multiply the value obtained by the axle ratio.
The differential case side bearing preload should be 1.7-4.0 N.m (15-35 lb in).
36. If the differential side bearing preload is not within specifications, add or subtract shim thickness equally from each shim pack as necessary in
order to increase/decrease the side bearing preload.
37. Once the differential side bearing preload is correct, measure the backlash and adjust, if necessary. Refer to Backlash Inspection and Adjustment (
See: Service and Repair/Removal and Replacement/Front Drive Axle/Backlash Inspection and Adjustment) .
38. Once the differential side bearing preload and backlash is correct, perform a gear tooth contact pattern check in order to ensure proper alignment
between the ring and pinion gears. Refer to Gear Tooth Contact Pattern Inspection (See: Service and Repair/Removal and Replacement/Front
Drive Axle/Gear Tooth Contact Pattern Inspection) .
