Pinion Gear Replacement

1986 GMC Suburban C2500, 5.7 M, StandardSECTION Pinion Gear Replacement
  1. Support carrier assembly on front face. To avoid damage to carrier when removing pin, use a 1/2" drill bit and remove stake marks from end of pin. DO NOT remove any material from carrier as it will weaken and possibly crack.
  2. Using a tapered punch, remove pinion pins from carrier. Remove pinion gears, thrust washers and roller needle bearings. Check pinion pocket thrust faces for burrs.
  3. Install 18 needle bearings into each pinion. Use pinion pin as guide and petroleum jelly to hold bearings in place. Place a bronze and steel washer on each side of pinion so steel washer is against pinion.
  4. Place pinion gear assembly in carrier. Install pilot shaft through rear face of assembly to hold parts in place. Drive in new pinion pin from front while rotating pinion gear.
  5. Ensure headed end is flush or below face of carrier. Use punch held in bench vise for an anvil. Place carrier over punch and stake pinion pin in 3 places with blunt radius chisel.
NOTE: Both ends of pinion pin must lie below face of carrier or interference may occur.
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

Recommended Tools & Savings

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

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.