Lubricant Level Inspection
Lubricant Level Check1. Raise the vehicle. Support the vehicle. Refer to Vehicle Lifting.
2. Remove the rear axle housing oil level/filler plug (1) from the rear axle housing.
3. Inspect the rear axle oil level. The oil level should be even with the bottom of the rear axle housing oil level/filler plug hole. If the oil level is low and no oil leaks exist, adjust the oil using 80W-90 GI-5 lubricant GM P/N 12345977, or equivalent.
Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.
4. Install the rear axle housing oil level/filler plug into the rear axle housing.
^ Tighten the rear axle housing oil level/filler plug to 43 Nm (32 ft. lbs.).
5. Lower the vehicle.
Lubricant Change
1. Raise the vehicle. Support the vehicle. Refer to Vehicle Lifting.
2. Place a drain pan or suitable container under the rear axle housing.
3. Remove the rear axle housing oil level/filler plug (1) from the rear axle housing.
4. Remove the rear axle housing drain plug (2) from the rear axle housing and drain the rear axle housing.
5. Apply GM P/N 12346004, or equivalent, to the threaded portion of the rear axle housing drain plug.
Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.
6. After the rear axle housing has completely drained, install the rear axle housing drain plug into the rear axle housing.
^ Tighten the rear axle housing drain plug to 25 Nm (18 ft. lbs.).
7. Refill the rear axle housing with approximately 2.2 liters (4.6 pts.) of 80W-90 GL5 lubricant GM P/N 12345977, or equivalent. The oil level should be even with the bottom of the rear axle housing oil level/filler plug hole.
8. Install the rear axle housing oil level/filler plug into the rear axle housing.
^ Tighten the rear axle housing oil level/filler plug to 43 Nm (32 ft. lbs.).
9. Remove the drain pan from under the rear axle housing.
10. Lower the vehicle.