Installation Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2023 GMC Sierra 3500 HD and 2023 GMC Sierra 2500 HD. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

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NOTE:
The front axle may have to be maneuvered to install it into the vehicle.

Front Axle (1) - Install
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CAUTION:
Refer to Fastener Caution .

Front Differential Carrier Bracket Nut (1) - Install and tighten [2x] - Fastener Specifications
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Front Differential Carrier Bracket- Left Side (2) - Install
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Front Differential Carrier Bolt (1) - Install and tighten - Fastener Specifications
Raise the front axle assembly into position with a jack.
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Front Differential Carrier Bracket Bolt (3) - Install [2x]
Front Differential Carrier Bracket Nut (1) - Install [2x]
Front Differential Carrier Bracket Bolt (3) - Tighten [2x] - Fastener Specifications
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Front Differential Carrier Bolt (1) - Install and tighten [2x] - Fastener Specifications
Remove the hydraulic jack from under the front axle assembly.
Have an assistant apply the brakes.
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If NEW threaded components are being installed, loosen the adhesive using a metal pick or similar tool before proceeding. If threaded components are reused, prepare the threaded components using the following steps:
1. Remove any loose cured adhesive from the external threads of the components using a lint free cloth.
2. Thread the cleaned components into the internal mating threads and remove to loosen trapped cured adhesive.
3. Remove loose debris from internal and external threads using compressed air.
4. Apply liquid thread locking adhesive in a strip along half of the length of the external threads, starting at the tip, just prior to installation. Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers
Front Wheel Drive Half Shaft- Right Side - Reposition
Install and Tighten the 8 front wheel drive shaft bolts (1) in a crisscross pattern. Fastener Specifications .
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If NEW threaded components are being installed, loosen the adhesive using a metal pick or similar tool before proceeding. If threaded components are reused, prepare the threaded components using the following steps:
1. Remove any loose cured adhesive from the external threads of the components using a lint free cloth.
2. Thread the cleaned components into the internal mating threads and remove to loosen trapped cured adhesive.
3. Remove loose debris from internal and external threads using compressed air.
4. Apply liquid thread locking adhesive in a strip along half of the length of the external threads, starting at the tip, just prior to installation. Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers
Front Wheel Drive Half Shaft- Left Side - Reposition
Install and tighten the 8 front wheel drive shaft bolts (1) in a crisscross pattern. Fastener Specifications .
Have the assistant release the brakes.
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Install the front axle vent hose (1) to the front axle vent hose connector.
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Reposition the wiring harness and connect the 3 retainers (1).
Connect the electrical connector to the actuator.
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Drivetrain and Front Suspension Frame Front Crossmember (1) - Install
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Drivetrain and Front Suspension Frame Reinforcement Bolt (1) - Install [4x]
Drivetrain and Front Suspension Frame Reinforcement Nut (2) - Install and tighten [4x] - Fastener Specifications
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Front Axle Propeller Shaft (3) - Install
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Align the reference marks made between the front axle propeller shaft and the front axle drive pinion flange.
If NEW threaded components are being installed, loosen the adhesive using a metal pick or similar tool before proceeding. If threaded components are reused, prepare the threaded components using the following steps:
1. Remove any loose cured adhesive from the external threads of the components using a lint free cloth.
2. Thread the cleaned components into the internal mating threads and remove to loosen trapped cured adhesive.
3. Remove loose debris from internal and external threads using compressed air.
4. Apply liquid thread locking adhesive in a strip along half of the length of the external threads, starting at the tip, just prior to installation. Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers
Front Axle Propeller Shaft Retainer (1) - Install [2x]
Front Axle Propeller Shaft Bolt (2) - Install and tighten [4x] - Fastener Specifications
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Front Differential Carrier Oil Filler Plug (1) - Remove
Inspect the axle lubricant level, it should be 0 - 6 mm (0 - 0.24 in) below the plug opening.
If the level is low, add axle lubricant until the level is 0 - 6 mm (0 - 0.24 in) below the plug opening. Use the appropriate axle lubricant: Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers
Front Differential Carrier Oil Filler Plug (1) - Install and tighten - Fastener Specifications
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{If equipped} Underbody Skid Shield (1) - Install
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{If equipped} Underbody Skid Shield Bolt (2) Install and tighten [2x] - Fastener Specifications
{If equipped} Underbody Splash Shield Bolt (1) - Install and tighten [2x] - Fastener Specifications
Remove the support and lower the vehicle.