Pontiac FIREBIRD 1972 Service Manual page 345

NON TYPE C DIFFERENTIAL
4A-2 1
Fig. 4A-28 ~ e m o v i n ~ Companion Flange
back out puller screw, insert puller through holder
and rotate 1/8 turn (Fig. 4A-28).
4. Remove pinion assembly. If necessary, tap pinion out
with soft hammer, being careful to guide pinion with
hand to avoid damage to bearing outer races.
DISASSEMBLE
NOTE: Both front bearing and outer race, and
rear bearing and outer race, are matched parts.
I f either bearing is to be replaced, its matching
outer race must also be replaced.
1. If replacing rear pinion bearing or changing pinion
depth setting, remove rear pinion bearing from pin-
ion shaft, using remover J 8612 (B Series), J 21493 (A
or G Series) with holder J 6407-1 (Fig. 4A-29).
Fig. 4A-29 Removing Rear Pinion Bearing
2. If replacing rear pinion bearing, drive outer race from
carrier, using a drift.
3. Pry pinion oil seal from carrier and remove front
pinion bearing. If replacing this bearing, drive its
outer race from carrier, using a drift.
CLEANING A N D INSPECTION
1. Check drive pinion stem and gear for excessive wear.
NOTE: Ring gears and pinions are matched at
the factory and are serviced only in sets. Never
attempt to replace either a ring gear or pinion
without its matching member.
2. Thoroughly clean and inspect carrier for cracks or
other damage.
3. Be sure oil passage in carrier is clean and clear.
4. Inspect bearing cap and bolt threads in carrier. Clean
out metal filings and chips.
5. Carefully inspect pinion bore and shoulders against
which pinion bearing outer races seal. They must be
free of burrs, nicks or material which would prevent
proper seating of bearing outer races.
NOTE: I f axle housing (carrier and tube assem-
bly) is being replaced, thoroughly clean and
inspect new housing, paying particular atten-
tion to machined surfaces in bearing caps and
carrier. Be sure all metal filings and foreign
material are removed from the bearing cap bolt
1
Fig. 4A-30 Installing Rear Pinion Bearing Outer Race