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Contents Wiring diagrams Section: Differentials & Drive Axles All sections

Front Drive Axle Cadillac CTS II

Differentials & Drive Axles 7 illustrations ~2484 words

Fastener Tightening Specifications

ApplicationSpecification
MetricEnglish
Differential Housing Cover Bolts29 N.m21 lb ft
Differential Support Mounting Bolts110 N.m81 lb ft
Drain Plug39 N.m29 lb ft
Fill Plug39 N.m29 lb ft
Pinion Housing Bolts29 N.m21 lb ft
Pinion Nut235 N.m173 lb ft
Propeller Shaft Coupler-to-Differential Flange Bolts30 N.m22 lb ft

Fastener Tightening Specifications

Lubrication Specifications

ApplicationQuantity
MetricEnglish
Synthetic Differential Lubricant GL-5 75W90 GM P/N 89021677 (Canadian P/N 89021678)0.7 L0.74 qt

Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers

ApplicationType of MaterialGM Part Number
USCanada
Pinion NutThread Locker1234538210953489

Scheme 12

Scheme 12: Front Axle Identification
Scheme 12: Front Axle Identification
CalloutComponent Name
1GM Logo
2GM Part Number
3Bar Code
4Getrag Serial Number
5Getrag Logo

Strategy Based Diagnostics

Review the system operations in order to familiarize yourself with the system functions. Refer to Front Drive Axle Description and Operation , and Wheel Drive Shafts Description and Operation . All diagnosis on a vehicle should follow a logical process. Strategy based diagnostics is a uniform approach for repairing all systems. The diagnostic flow may always be used in order to resolve a system problem. The diagnostic flow is the place to start when repairs are necessary. For a detailed explanation, refer to Strategy Based Diagnosis .

Visual/Physical Inspection

  1. Inspect for aftermarket devices, which could affect the operation of the vehicle. Refer to «Checking Aftermarket Accessories»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#wiring-systems-and-power-management-diagnostic-information-and-procedures__checking-aftermarket-accessories) .
  2. Inspect the easily accessible or visible system components for obvious damage or conditions, which could cause the symptom.
  3. Inspect for the correct lubricant level and the proper viscosity.
  4. Verify the exact operating conditions under which the concern exists. Note factors such as vehicle speed, road conditions, ambient temperature, and other specifics.
  5. Compare the driving characteristics or sounds, if applicable, to a known good vehicle and ensure you are not trying to correct a normal condition.

Intermittent

Test the vehicle under the same conditions that the customer reported in order to verify the system is operating properly.

Symptom List

Refer to a symptom diagnostic procedure from the following list in order to diagnose the symptom

  1. «Diagnostic Starting Point - Vehicle»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/oem-general-information/#vehicle-diagnostic-information-diagnostic-information-and-procedures__diagnostic-starting-point-vehicle)
  2. «Symptoms - Propeller Shaft»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/driveshaft-universal-joints/#propeller-shaft)
  3. «Noisy in Drive»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle__noisy-in-drive)
  4. «Noisy When Coasting»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle__noisy-when-coasting)
  5. «Intermittent Noise»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle__intermittent-noise)
  6. «Constant Noise»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle__constant-noise)
  7. «Noisy on Turns»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle__noisy-on-turns)
  8. «Front Axle Lubricant Leak Diagnosis»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle__front-axle-lubricant-leak-diagnosis)

Noisy in Drive

CauseCorrection
Inspect for the proper gear oil levels prior to performing system diagnosis. Refer to Front Axle Lubricant Level Inspection .
Transmission noiseRepair or replace as required. Refer to Noise and Vibration Analysis for the 6L50/6L80/6L90 transmission
Driveline assembly noiseRepair or replace as required. Refer to Symptoms - Propeller Shaft .
Worn axle shaft constant velocity jointsReplace the constant velocity joints as required.
Worn, loose, or damaged axle mount and/or bracketRepair or replace the axle mount and/or bracket as required.
Bearing noise within the differential assemblyA grinding or roar type noise will increase or decrease relative to the vehicle speed. Inspect for the proper fluid level. Fill as required. If the noise continues, replace the carrier unit. Refer to Differential Carrier Assembly Replacement .
Gear set whine noise within the differential assemblyA whine type noise will increase or decrease relative to the vehicle speed, approximately 80-96 km/h (50-60 mph). Typical causes of a gear set whine type noise may include incorrect backlash and/or pinion depth adjustment or worn or scored gear set teeth. Inspect for the proper fluid level. Fill as required. Replace the carrier unit. Refer to Differential Carrier Assembly Replacement .

Noisy When Coasting

CauseCorrection
IMPORTANT: Inspect for the proper gear oil levels prior to performing system diagnosis. Refer to Front Axle Lubricant Level Inspection .
Worn axle shaft constant velocity jointsReplace the constant velocity joints as required.
Worn, loose, or damaged axle mount and/or bracketRepair or replace the axle mount and/or bracket as required.
Bearing noise within the differential assemblyA grinding or roar type noise will increase or decrease relative to the vehicle speed. Check for the proper fluid level. Fill as required. If the noise continues, replace the carrier unit. Refer to Differential Carrier Assembly Replacement .
Gear set whine noise within the differential assemblyA whine type noise will increase or decrease relative to the vehicle speed, approximately 80-96 km/h (50-60 mph). Typical causes of a gear set whine type noise may include incorrect backlash and/or pinion depth adjustment or worn or scored gear set teeth. Check for the proper fluid level. Fill as required. Replace the carrier unit. Refer to Differential Carrier Assembly Replacement .
IMPORTANT
Inspect for the proper gear oil levels prior to performing system diagnosis. Refer to Front Axle Lubricant Level Inspection .

Intermittent Noise

CauseCorrection
IMPORTANT: Inspect for the proper gear oil levels prior to performing system diagnosis. Refer to Front Axle Lubricant Level Inspection .
Worn, loose, or damaged axle mount and/or bracketRepair or replace the axle mount and/or bracket as required.
Incorrect gear oilReplace with the correct gear oil. Refer to Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers .
IMPORTANT
Inspect for the proper gear oil levels prior to performing system diagnosis. Refer to Front Axle Lubricant Level Inspection .

Constant Noise

CauseCorrection
IMPORTANT: Inspect for the proper gear oil levels prior to performing system diagnosis. Refer to Front Axle Lubricant Level Inspection .
Low gear oil levelsFaulty oil seals or other type leaks may contribute to lower than required fluid levels. Refer to Front Axle Lubricant Leak Diagnosis . Fill to the proper level with the correct gear oil. Refer to Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers and Front Axle Lubricant Level Inspection .
Worn, loose, or damaged axle mount and/or bracketRepair or replace the axle mount and/or bracket as required.
Bearing noise within the differential assemblyA grinding or roar type noise will increase or decrease relative to the vehicle speed. Check for the proper fluid level. Fill as required. If the noise continues, replace the carrier unit. Refer to Differential Carrier Assembly Replacement .
Gear set whine noise within the differential assemblyA whine type noise will increase or decrease relative to the vehicle speed, approximately 31-37 km/h (50-60 mph). Typical causes of a gear set whine type noise may include incorrect backlash and/or pinion depth adjustment or worn or scored gear set teeth. Check for the proper fluid level. Fill as required. Replace the carrier unit. Refer to Differential Carrier Assembly Replacement .
IMPORTANT
Inspect for the proper gear oil levels prior to performing system diagnosis. Refer to Front Axle Lubricant Level Inspection .

Noisy on Turns

CauseCorrection
IMPORTANT: Inspect for the proper gear oil levels prior to performing system diagnosis. Refer to Front Axle Lubricant Level Inspection .
Worn or loose rear axle mount and/or bracketRepair or replace as required.
Worn axle shaft constant velocity jointsReplace the constant velocity joints as required.
Worn wheel bearingsReplace the wheel bearings as required.
Incorrect gear oilFill to the proper level with the correct gear oil. Refer to Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers and Front Axle Lubricant Level Inspection .
IMPORTANT
Inspect for the proper gear oil levels prior to performing system diagnosis. Refer to Front Axle Lubricant Level Inspection .

Front Axle Lubricant Leak Diagnosis

CauseCorrection
IMPORTANT: Upon completion of all repairs, refill the axle with the proper amounts of axle lubricant. Refer to Front Axle Lubricant Level Inspection and Lubrication Specifications .
Restricted or damaged vent valve assemblyRepair or replace the vent valve as required.
Right side cover O-ring sealReplace the side cover O-ring seal as required.
Worn or damaged axle shaft oil sealsReplace the axle shaft oil seals as required.
Housing or side cover porosityReplace the carrier. Refer to Differential Carrier Assembly Replacement .
Loose Drain or Fill PlugTighten to specification
Pinion Housing Assembly O-ringPull Housing Assembly Replace O-ring
IMPORTANT
Upon completion of all repairs, refill the axle with the proper amounts of axle lubricant. Refer to Front Axle Lubricant Level Inspection and Lubrication Specifications .

Draining Procedure

  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to «Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#general-information) .
  2. Clean any dirt from around the differential drain plug.
  3. Position a drain pan under drain plug.
  4. Remove the drain plug from the differential and drain the fluid.

Filling Procedure

  1. Install the drain plug to the differential and tighten to 39 N.m (29 lb ft).
  2. Clean any dirt from around the differential fill plug.
  3. Remove the fill plug from the differential.
  4. Fill the differential with 75W90 synthetic axle lubricant, GM P/N 12378261 (Canadian P/N 10953455) or equivalent. Refer to «Approximate Fluid Capacities»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/lubrication-system/#maintenance-and-lubrication__approximate-fluid-capacities) .
  5. Inspect the gear lubricant level to ensure it is even with the bottom of the fill plug hole to no lower than 6 mm (0.25 in) below the opening.
  6. Install the fill plug to the differential and tighten to 39 N.m (29 lb ft).
  7. Lower the vehicle.

Scheme 13

Scheme 13: Shield Replacement
Scheme 13: Shield Replacement
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle . Remove the right catalytic convertor. Refer to Catalytic Converter Replacement - Right Side (LLT) or Catalytic Converter Replacement - Right Side (LSA) or Catalytic Converter Replacement - Right Side (LF1) .
1Heat Shield Bolt (Qty: 2) CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution . Tighten: 9 N.m (80 lb in)
2Heat Shield
CAUTION
Refer to Fastener Caution .

Front Wheel Drive Intermediate Shaft Bearing Replacement

Special Tools

  1. J 45019 Flange and Pinion Cage Remover. See «Special Tools»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  2. J 21474-20 Bushing Installer

Removal Procedure

  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to «Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#general-information) .
  2. Remove the left front wheel drive shaft. Refer to «Front Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement - Left Side»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/axle-shafts/#wheel-drive-shafts) .
  3. Remove and discard the intermediate wheel drive shaft retaining ring (2) and the O-ring (1).
  4. Remove the intermediate shaft bearing assembly mounting bolts.
  5. Install J 45019 into the threaded holes in the intermediate shaft bearing assembly. See «Special Tools»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  6. Using the J 45019 , remove the intermediate shaft bearing assembly. See «Special Tools»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  7. Remove J 45019 from the intermediate shaft bearing housing. See «Special Tools»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  8. Remove the snap ring (1) from the intermediate shaft bearing housing (3).
  9. Using a hammer and a brass drift, remove the intermediate shaft bearing (2) from the intermediate shaft bearing housing (3).
  10. Thoroughly clean the intermediate shaft bearing housing.
  11. Inspect the intermediate shaft bearing housing for damage, if damaged replace the intermediate shaft bearing housing.

Installation Procedure

  1. Install the intermediate shaft bearing (2) to the intermediate shaft bearing housing (3).
  2. Using the J 21474-20 and a hydraulic press, install intermediate shaft bearing (2) to the intermediate shaft bearing housing (3).
  3. Install the snap ring (1) in the intermediate shaft bearing housing (3).
  4. Install the intermediate shaft bearing assembly to the intermediate wheel drive shaft.
  5. Install the intermediate shaft bearing housing mounting bolts to the oil pan. Tighten the intermediate shaft bearing assembly mounting bolts to 60 N.m (44 lb ft).
  6. Apply a small amount of grease GM P/N 01051344, (Canadian P/N 993037) to the intermediate wheel drive shaft splines.
  7. Install a new O-ring (1) and the new wheel drive shaft retaining ring (2).
  8. Install the left front wheel drive shaft. Refer to «Front Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement - Left Side»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/axle-shafts/#wheel-drive-shafts) .
  9. Lower the vehicle.

Output Shaft Seal Replacement - Left Side

Special Tools

  1. J 8092 Driver Handle. See «Special Tools»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  2. J 25070 Heat Gun
  3. J 45017 Seal Installer. See «Special Tools»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  4. J 45019 Flange and Pinion Cage Remover. See «Special Tools»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  5. J 46265 Stub Shaft Seal Installer. See «Special Tools»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  1. Remove the carrier from the vehicle. Refer to «Differential Carrier Assembly Replacement»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  2. Remove the bolts from the pinion bearing housing.
  3. Install the J 45019 and slide hammer. See «Special Tools»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  4. Using the J 25070 , apply heat around the pinion housing to ease removal.
  5. Remove the J 45019 from the flange. See «Special Tools»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  6. Remove the pinion assembly, O-ring, and the shims from the from differential carrier.
  7. Remove the carrier side cover bolts.
  8. Using the appropriate tool in the pry tabs, remove the carrier side cover.
  9. Remove the O-ring from the side cover.
  10. Remove the differential assembly from the carrier.
  11. Remove the right output shaft seal from the cover.
  12. Using a suitable tool, remove the left output shaft oil seal from the carrier.
  1. Using the J 46265 (2) and J 8092 (1), install the left output shaft seal. See «Special Tools»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  2. Install the selected shims and the NEW O-ring on the pinion housing.
  3. Apply a light coat of gear lube to the bearing housing to ease installation.
  4. Apply a light coat of gear lube into the pinion housing bore of the carrier.
  5. Using the J 25070 , apply heat to the differential carrier.
  6. Using the two long bolts from J 45019 as guides, align the housing bolt holes to the carrier bolt holes. See «Special Tools»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  7. Hand tighten the guide bolts.
  8. Applying even pressure, push the housing evenly into the differential housing.
  9. Remove the long bolts.
  10. Install the pinion housing bolts and tighten to 29 N.m (21 lb ft).
  11. Install the differential assembly into the differential carrier.
  12. Lightly lube the outside diameter of the oil seal with axle lube.
  13. Using the J 45017 , install the right output shaft oil seal (21). See «Special Tools»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  14. Install a NEW carrier cover O-ring into the groove.
  15. Apply a light coat of gear lube to the O-ring area.
  16. Align the bolt holes and push cover onto the differential carrier evenly.
  17. Start the cover bolts in the holes by hand.
  18. Install the side cover mounting bolts (1) and tighten to 29 N.m (21 lb ft) in a criss-cross pattern.
  19. Install the drain plug. Refer to «Axle Lubricant Change (W/O Differential Cooler)»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#rear-drive-axle) or «Axle Lubricant Change (With Differential Cooler)»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#rear-drive-axle) .
  20. Install the carrier into the vehicle. Refer to «Differential Carrier Assembly Replacement»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  21. Fill the differential with fluid. Refer to «Front Axle Lubricant Replacement»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .

Special Tools

J 45017 Output Shaft Seal Installer. See Special Tools .

  1. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to «Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#general-information) .
  2. Remove the right front wheel drive shaft. Refer to «Front Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement - Right Side»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/axle-shafts/#wheel-drive-shafts) .
  3. Using a flat-bladed tool, remove the right differential output shaft seal (1).
  1. Lubricate the wheel drive shaft sealing surface of the oil seal with 75W90 synthetic axle lubricant, GM P/N 12378261 (Canadian P/N 10953455) or equivalent.
  2. Install the right differential output shaft seal (2) to the J 45017 . See «Special Tools»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  3. Using the J 45017 (1), install the right differential output shaft seal (2). See «Special Tools»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  4. Remove J 45017 (1) from the right differential output shaft seal (2). See «Special Tools»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  5. Install the right front wheel drive shaft. Refer to «Front Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement - Right Side»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/axle-shafts/#wheel-drive-shafts) .
  6. Inspect the fluid level. Refer to «Rear Axle Lubricant Level Inspection»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#rear-drive-axle) .
  7. Lower the vehicle.

Front Differential Drive Pinion Gear Yoke Replacement

Special Tools

  1. DT-48075 Seal Installer. See «Special Tools»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  2. J 8614-01 Flange and Pulley Holding Tool. See «Special Tools»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  3. J 45012 Holding Fixture. See «Special Tools»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  1. Raise and support vehicle. Refer to «Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#general-information) .
  2. Remove the front propeller shaft. Refer to «Front Propeller Shaft Replacement»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/driveshaft-universal-joints/#propeller-shaft) .
  3. Remove the front axle propeller shaft heat shield. Refer to «Shield Replacement»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  4. Install the J 45012 to the drive pinion flange. See «Special Tools»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  5. Using the appropriate size socket and a breaker bar, remove the drive pinion flange nut.
  6. Remove J 45012 from the drive pinion flange. See «Special Tools»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  7. Install the J 8614-01 to the drive pinion flange. See «Special Tools»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  8. Using the J 8614-01 , remove the drive pinion flange. See «Special Tools»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  9. Remove the J 8614-01 from the drive pinion flange. See «Special Tools»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  10. Using a flat-bladed tool, remove the drive pinion seal (1). Take care not to damage any sealing surfaces.
  1. Lubricate the drive pinion flange sealing surface of the drive pinion seal with synthetic gear oil GM P/N 12378514 (Canadian P/N 88901045) or equivalent.
  2. Using the DT-48075 (1), install the new drive pinion seal (2) in the pinion housing (3). See «Special Tools»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  3. Remove the DT 48075 from the pinion housing.
  4. Install the pinion flange to the drive pinion shaft.
  5. Prepare the pinion shaft threads and the pinion flange nut for assembly: Thoroughly clean the residue from the pinion shaft threads by using denatured alcohol or equivalent and allow to dry. Thoroughly clean the residue from the pinion flange nut by using denatured alcohol or equivalent and allow to dry.
  6. Apply threadlocker GM P/N 12345382 (Canadian P/N 10953489) or equivalent to 2/3 of the threaded length of the pinion shaft threads. Ensure that there are no gaps in the threadlocker along the length of the filled area of the pinion shaft threads.
  7. Allow the threadlocker to cure approximately ten minutes before installation.
  8. Install the drive pinion flange nut to the pinion shaft.
  9. Install the J 45012 to the drive pinion flange. See «Special Tools»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  10. While holding the J 45012 , tighten the drive pinion nut to 235 N. See «Special Tools»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .m (173 lb ft).
  11. Remove the J 45012 from the pinion flange. See «Special Tools»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  12. Install the front axle propeller shaft heat shield. Refer to «Shield Replacement»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle) .
  13. Install the propeller shaft. Refer to «Front Propeller Shaft Replacement»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/driveshaft-universal-joints/#propeller-shaft) .
  14. Inspect the fluid level. Refer to «Front Axle Lubricant Level Inspection»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle__front-axle-lubricant-level-inspection) .
  15. Lower the vehicle.
  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to «Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#general-information) .
  2. Lower the front frame assembly. Refer to «Drivetrain and Front Suspension Frame Replacement (All Wheel Drive)»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) or «Drivetrain and Front Suspension Frame Replacement (Rear Wheel Drive)»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .
  3. Remove front propeller shaft from the differential and position out of the way. Refer to «Front Propeller Shaft Replacement»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/driveshaft-universal-joints/#propeller-shaft) .
  4. Remove the right front wheel drive shaft. Refer to «Front Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement - Left Side»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/axle-shafts/#wheel-drive-shafts) .
  5. Remove the left front wheel drive shaft. Refer to «Front Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement - Right Side»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/axle-shafts/#wheel-drive-shafts) .
  6. Remove the intermediate wheel drive shaft support bearing. Refer to «Front Wheel Drive Intermediate Shaft Bearing Replacement»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle__front-wheel-drive-intermediate-shaft-bearing) .
  7. Position a transmission jack beneath the differential.
  8. Firmly secure the differential to the transmission jack.
  9. Remove the front differential to oil pan mounting bolts.
  10. Remove the intermediate wheel drive shaft and the front differential from the oil pan.
  11. Remove the differential assembly from the vehicle.
  1. Position the differential on a transmission jack.
  2. Firmly secure the differential to the transmission jack.
  3. With the differential firmly attached to the jack, install the intermediate wheel drive shaft and the front differential to the oil pan.
  4. Install the front differential to oil pan mounting bolts and tighten in sequence (1-3) to 110 N.m (81 lb ft).
  5. Remove the transmission jack from the differential.
  6. Install the intermediate wheel drive shaft support bearing. Refer to «Front Wheel Drive Intermediate Shaft Bearing Replacement»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle__front-wheel-drive-intermediate-shaft-bearing) .
  7. Install the left front wheel drive shaft. Refer to «Front Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement - Right Side»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/axle-shafts/#wheel-drive-shafts) .
  8. Install the right front wheel drive shaft. Refer to «Front Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement - Right Side»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/axle-shafts/#wheel-drive-shafts) .
  9. Install the front propeller shaft to the differential. Refer to «Front Propeller Shaft Replacement»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/driveshaft-universal-joints/#propeller-shaft) .
  10. Inspect the differential lubricant level. Refer to «Front Axle Lubricant Level Inspection»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/differentials-drive-axles/#front-drive-axle__front-axle-lubricant-level-inspection) .
  11. Install the front frame assembly. Refer to «Drivetrain and Front Suspension Frame Replacement (All Wheel Drive)»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) or «Drivetrain and Front Suspension Frame Replacement (Rear Wheel Drive)»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .
  12. Lower the vehicle.

Front Axle Lubricant Level Inspection

  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to «Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#general-information) .
  2. Clean any dirt from around the differential fill plug.
  3. Remove the fill plug from the differential and drain the fluid.
  4. Check the differential fluid level, it should be even with the bottom of the fill plug hole to no lower than 6 mm (0.25 in) below the opening.
  5. Add new fluid if necessary.
  6. Fill the differential with 75W90 synthetic axle lubricant, GM P/N 12378261 (Canadian P/N 10953455) or equivalent. Refer to «Approximate Fluid Capacities»(/cadillac/cts/ii-2007-2014/remont/lubrication-system/#maintenance-and-lubrication__approximate-fluid-capacities) .
  7. Install the differential fill plug to the differential and tighten to 39 N.m (29 lb ft).
  8. Lower the vehicle.

Scheme 14

Scheme 14: Front Drive Axle Description and Operation
Scheme 14: Front Drive Axle Description and Operation

The differential housing, side cover and pinion housing are constructed of cast aluminum. The internal components incorporate a hypoid gear set, ring and pinion, carrier assembly and pinion housing assembly. The pinion is supported in a pinion housing by a tapered roller bearings. The pinion is positioned forward of the ring gear centerline. All models have a 7 5/8 inch ring gear.

Illustration Tool Number/ Description DT 48075 Seal Installer J 8092 Driver Handle J 8614-01 Flange and Pulley Holding Tool J 21474-01 Bushing Installer Kit J 25070 Heat Gun J 45012 Seal Protector J 45017 Rear Wheel Drive Shaft Removal Tool J 45019 Wheel Hub Remover J 46265 Stub Shaft Seal Installer

Scheme 15

Scheme 15: Special Tools
Scheme 15: Special Tools

Scheme 16

Scheme 16
Scheme 16

Scheme 17

Scheme 17
Scheme 17

Scheme 18

Scheme 18
Scheme 18

See also:
• Wheel Drive Shafts Description and Operation
• Strategy Based Diagnosis
• Checking Aftermarket Accessories
• Diagnostic Starting Point - Vehicle
• Symptoms - Propeller Shaft
• Noise and Vibration Analysis
• Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle
• Fastener Caution
• Approximate Fluid Capacities
• Catalytic Converter Replacement - Right Side (LLT)
• Axle Lubricant Change (W/O Differential Cooler)
• Drivetrain and Front Suspension Frame Replacement (All Wheel Drive)
• Front Drive Axle Description and Operation
• Noisy in Drive
• Noisy When Coasting
• Intermittent Noise
• Constant Noise
• Noisy on Turns
• Front Axle Lubricant Leak Diagnosis
• Front Axle Lubricant Level Inspection
• Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers
• Lubrication Specifications
• Front Wheel Drive Intermediate Shaft Bearing Replacement

More articles — Driveline/axles