OEM 2004 Chevrolet Corvette Differential Cover

2004 Chevrolet Corvette Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to replace the RH Differential Cover and seal on 2004 Chevrolet Corvette?

  A: To remove Differential carrier cover and seal on the right lower side, one has to first raise and support vehicle, then remove the rh rear tire and wheel assembly, after which remove rh wheel drive shaft and then rh Muffler assembly. Drain the fluid from the Differential and remove any dirt or debris from the area of the right Differential Cover. Take out the bolt that hold the Differential Cover and the transmission that hold the transmission vent tube retainer, then remove the Differential Cover. Remove the axle seal and o-ring seal from the Differential Cover. When extracting the bearing race and shims from the Differential Cover, use the bearing and race remover (J42194), and position it in a hydraulic press. It is important to compare the new and old Differential Cover bore by using a caliper, a straight edge, and 16 spacers (J42168) in order to check the proper shim pack adjustment for Differential bearing preload. After you determine the shim adjustments required, install the shims and the bearing race into the new cover (right) by hammering them in with the bearing and race installer (J42170) and a hydraulic press. Clean the o-ring sealing surface of the Differential Cover and the housing; use a new o-ring seal and a Differential Cover(difficulty cover), and install it to the Differential (right side). Screw the cover with retaining bolts to a torque of 25 nm (18 ft. Lbs.). Install the axle seal into the Differential Cover (right), after having used the output shaft seal installer (J46405), then attach the transmission vent tube retainer. After doing so, refill the rear axle with the appropriate fluid, re-fit the rh Muffler assembly, the rh wheel drive shaft as well as the rear tire wheel assembly its back on the rh side and finally lower the vehicle.