Cadillac 15829977 Axle Assembly, Rear (3.73 Ratio)

The drive axle-to-axle shaft flange bolts should be removed while having an assistant apply the brake to prevent the driveaxle from turning.

No, overhauling the differential requires special tools and is not cost-effective for a do-it-yourselfer.

The initial steps are to loosen the rear wheel lug nuts, raise the rear of the vehicle, and support it securely on jackstands.

For models with a locking differential, you should rotate the differential until the shaft touches the case for access to the C-locks.

The outer ends of the driveaxles are equipped with ball-and-cage type CV joints capable of angular but not axial movement.

The initial steps to remove and install components in the front differential of selectable 4WD systems are as follows: Loosen the wheel lug nuts. Raise the vehicle securely on jackstands. Remove the right front wheel. Remove the differential carrier splash shield if equipped. Drain the lubricant from the front differential. For 4WD systems, unbolt the right driveaxle from the axleshaft flange and support it out of the way. Remove the front axle shift motor and, if applicable, disconnect the front stabilizer link or remove the front shock absorber/coil spring assembly. On 2500/3500 models, remove the front axle bracket bolts and slide the bracket forward for additional clearance. Support the differential carrier with a floor jack and a block of wood.

After raising the vehicle and supporting it on jackstands, a jack should be positioned under the rear axle differential housing.

4WD models use a fully independent front axle assembly.

It is important to inspect the boots periodically for damage and leaking lubricant, as torn CV joint boots must be replaced immediately to prevent damage to the joints.

The driveaxle/hub nut (new) and the flange bolts should be tightened to the torque values specifications during installation.

To remove the semi-floating axle shaft, you need to remove the C-lock from the groove on the inner end of the axleshaft and withdraw the shaft, being careful not to damage the oil seal.

To remove and install components in the front differential for AWD systems, follow these steps: Remove the stabilizer bar link and, if applicable, the front shock absorber. Unbolt the right driveaxle from the axleshaft flange, supporting it properly. Support the differential carrier with a floor jack and a block of wood. Remove nuts attaching the axle shaft to its support bracket and the bolts securing the axle shaft flange to the differential carrier. Use a brass punch and hammer to separate the axle shaft from the differential case side gear. Remove the inner axle shaft assembly and axle shaft. Replace the inner seal and bearing with a special tool, then apply RTV sealant to the differential sealing surface and install the inner axle shaft housing assembly. Install the axle shaft to the support bracket and align the splines with the differential side gear. Tap the axle shaft with a mallet until the ring (clip) aligns with the groove in the differential case side gear. Install the axle shaft to the inner flange and tighten the bolts. Reinstall the stabilizer link, fill the differential with lubricant, install the differential carrier splash shield, and finally, install the wheel and lug nuts. Lower the vehicle, tighten the lug nuts, and check for proper operation.