Minor Service And Repairs; Companion Flange; Checking Pinion Bearing Preload; Removing Drive Pinion Nut - Pontiac Grand Prix Service Manual

4A-8
1%9
PONTIAC SERVICE MANUAL
found, refer to suspension section of manual and
thoroughly diagnose problem before replacing units.
MINOR SERVICE AND REPAIRS
NOTE: Most rearale service repairs can be made with
the rear axle assembly in the car by raising the rear end,
with the rear axle hanging on the shock absorbers. Rear
axle lubricant may be drained by backing out all cover
bolts and breaking cover loose at the bottom.
Fig. 4A-6 Checking Pinion Bearing Preload
COMPANION FLANGE
REMOVE
NOTE: When replacing companion flange, it is impor-
tant that new flange be properly installed to provide
correct pinion bearing preload. The following procedure
must be used to ensure correct pinion bearing
adjustment:
1. With rear wheels off floor, turn wheels and tap
brake backing plates with a soft hammer to ensure
that brakes are free.
2. Remove U-bolts which hold rear universal joint to
companion flange. Use a heavy rubber band or tape to
hold bearings onto journal to prevent loss of bearing
rollers when joint is disconnected if tie wire has been
Fig. 4A-7 Removing Drive Pinion Nut
removed (Fig. 4A-5).
3.
Attach a 1/2" drive adapter and socket to a lb. in.
torque wrench. Place socket over drive pinion nut and
turn pinion two or three revolutions to ensure free
movement. Then take a torque reading while rotating
pinion to measure bearing preload (Fig. 4A-6). Record
reading.
NOTE: Additional clearance to check preload can be
obtained between dgerential and body by raising body a
few inches by means of a jack or stand placed under
fiameat
rear.
4. Hold companion flange with tool J 8614-1 (Fig.
4A-7) and remove drive pinion nut and washer using
heavy duty socket.
Fig. 4A-8 Removing Companion Flange
5. Remove companion flange, using puller J 8614-2
and 3 (Fig: 4A-8).
REPLACE
1. Replace companion flange and washer and nut.
Hold companion flange with tool J 8614-1 and tighten
nut only a little at a time, stopping frequently to check
Fig. 4A-5 Bearings Held in Place by Tie Wire preload (step 3). Tighten nut to reading noted in step