Removal Procedure
- Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to 
Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle
.
 
- Drain the rear axle.
 
| •  | For the 8.6 inch axle, loosen the rear cover bolts to allow the fluid to drain from the rear axle. | 
 
| •  | For the 9.5 inch LD and 9.5 inch HD axles, remove the drain plug. | 
 
- Remove the rear axle cover bolts (1).
 
- Remove the axle housing cover (2).
 
- Remove the gasket (3).
 
Installation Procedure
Important: The axle housing gasket is reusable. Replace only if damaged.
- Install the axle housing cover gasket (3).
 
- Install the axle housing cover (2).
 
Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.
- Install the mounting bolts (1).
 
Tighten
 Tighten the bolts to 40 N·m (30 lb ft).
- Install the drain plug (9.5 inch axle only).
 
Tighten
Tighten the drain plug to 33 N·m (24 lb in).
- Fill the rear axle with fluid.
 
Specification
The lubricant level should be between 0-13 mm (0-0.50 inch) below the fill plug opening.
- If the level is low, add lubricant until the level is even with the bottom of the fill plug opening. Use the proper fluid, refer to 
Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations
 .
 
- Lower the vehicle.