Section 12 (Limited-Slip Differentials): Testing

1996 Buick Roadmaster BaseSECTION Testing
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 1997 Pontiac Firebird, 1997 Chevrolet Camaro, 1996 Pontiac Firebird, 1996 Chevrolet Caprice, and 1996 Chevrolet Camaro. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Place A/T in Park (M/T in gear). Raise rear of vehicle until both wheels are off ground. Remove one rear wheel. Attach Axle Shaft Puller (J-21579) to axle shaft flange. Attach torque wrench to Adapter (J-2619-01). See Fig 1 .
  2. Measure torque required to rotate wheel assembly. Reading should be 125-225 ft. lbs. (169-305 N.m). Lower vehicle so opposite rear tire and wheel are on ground. Place transmission in Neutral.
  3. Check torque required to rotate raised wheel. Reading should be 43-67 ft. lbs. (58-91 N.m). Replace differential assembly if not within specifications.
Fig 1: Testing Differential In Vehicle
G95C13039Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
RENDER: 1.0x

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • β€’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • β€’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.