GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Rear Axle Lubricant Replacement 10.5 Inch Axle

Removal Procedure

  1. Raise the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .

  2. Object Number: 392774  Size: SH
  3. Remove the rear axle fill plug.

  4. Object Number: 390113  Size: SH
  5. Remove the rear axle drain plug.
  6. Drain the lubricant into a suitable container.
  7. Inspect the drain plug for excessive metal particle accumulation. This accumulation is symptomatic of extreme wear.
  8. Clean the drain plug.

Installation Procedure

    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.


    Object Number: 390113  Size: SH
  1. Install the rear axle drain plug.
  2. Tighten
    Tighten the rear axle drain plug to 33 N·m (24 lb ft).

  3. Fill the rear axle. Use the proper fluid. Refer to Approximate Fluid Capacities and Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations .

  4. Object Number: 392774  Size: SH
  5. Install the rear axle fill plug.
  6. Tighten
    Tighten the rear axle fill plug to 33 N·m (24 lb ft).

  7. Lower the vehicle.

Rear Axle Lubricant Replacement 8.6 Inch Axle

Removal Procedure

  1. Raise the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle.
  2. Clean the area around the rear axle fill plug.
  3. Remove the rear axle fill plug.
  4. Remove the rear axle cover. Refer to Rear Axle Housing Cover and Gasket Replacement.
  5. Drain the lubricant into a suitable container.

Installation Procedure

  1. Install the rear axle cover. Refer to Rear Axle Housing Cover and Gasket Replacement.
  2. Fill the rear axle with axle lubricant. Use the proper fluid. Refer to Approximate Fluid Capacities and Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers.
  3. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 392774  Size: SH
  4. Install the rear axle fill plug.
  5. Tighten
    Tighten the rear axle fill plug to 33 N·m (24 lb ft).

  6. Lower the vehicle.