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Yukon Gear Minor Install Kit for GM 8.5in 10-Bolt Rear Differential
Rebuild your GM 8.5in 10-bolt rear differential with the essential components you need in one package with the Yukon Gear MK GM8.5 Minor Install Kit. The YUKMK GM8.5 is designed for the common GM 8.5in 10-bolt rear axle found in a massive range of Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Oldsmobile, Cadillac, and Pontiac vehicles from the 1970s through the early 2000s. It includes the pinion seal, crush sleeve, Supershim kit, marking compound, and marking brush to complete a ring and pinion swap or differential service properly.
Features and Benefits
- Complete minor install components matched to the GM 8.5in 10-bolt rear differential specification
- New pinion seal prevents fluid leaks at the pinion flange
- Crush sleeve provides proper pinion bearing preload during reassembly
- Supershim kit covers a range of thicknesses for precise pinion depth adjustment
- Marking compound and brush included for gear mesh contact pattern verification
- Compatible with a wide array of 1970-2000 GM platforms including trucks, cars, SUVs, and vans
- Covered by Yukon Gear's limited warranty
Vehicle Fitment
| Year Range | Make | Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1970-1999 | Chevrolet | C/K 10 / C1500 Trucks | GM 8.5in 10-bolt rear diff |
| 1970-1999 | GMC | C/K 1500 Trucks | GM 8.5in 10-bolt rear diff |
| 1970-1999 | Chevrolet | Suburban / Blazer | GM 8.5in 10-bolt rear diff |
| 1970-1999 | GMC | Suburban / Jimmy | GM 8.5in 10-bolt rear diff |
| 1970-2000 | Chevrolet | Camaro / El Camino / Impala | GM 8.5in 10-bolt rear diff |
| 1970-2000 | Buick | Electra / Regal / Skylark | GM 8.5in 10-bolt rear diff |
| 1970-2000 | Oldsmobile | Cutlass / 98 | GM 8.5in 10-bolt rear diff |
| 1999-2000 | Cadillac | Escalade | GM 8.5in 10-bolt rear diff |
| 1996-2003 | Chevrolet | Express 1500 | GM 8.5in 10-bolt rear diff |
Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Part Number | MK GM8.5 |
| UPC | 883584120551 |
| Differential | GM 8.5in 10-bolt |
| Kit Type | Minor Install Kit |
| Warranty | Yukon Gear Limited Warranty |
What's Included
- Pinion seal
- Crush sleeve
- Supershim kit (assorted shims)
- Marking compound
- Marking brush
Frequently Asked Questions
What differential does the MK GM8.5 fit?
The YUKMK GM8.5 fits the GM 8.5in 10-bolt rear differential, one of the most prevalent rear axle assemblies across GM's truck, car, SUV, and van lineups from 1970 through the early 2000s.
Does this kit include bearings?
No. The MK GM8.5 is a minor install kit containing seals, sleeve, shims, and marking compound. Pinion and carrier bearings are sold separately through Yukon Gear's complete or master install kit options.
Can I use the YUKMK GM8.5 for a ring and pinion swap?
Yes. It is an ideal companion for any ring and pinion swap on a GM 8.5in 10-bolt axle, providing all the consumable components required for a proper, leak-free installation.
Will this void my vehicle warranty?
Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a manufacturer may not void your vehicle warranty simply because you used an aftermarket part. They must prove the part caused the failure. Proper installation of the YUKMK GM8.5 should not void your warranty.
How do I know the correct shim to use for my pinion depth?
Use a depth gauge or dial indicator to compare against the differential's nominal pinion depth specification. The Supershim kit provides a range of thicknesses so you can select the one needed to achieve the correct gear mesh pattern as shown by the marking compound.
What pinion preload should I set for the GM 8.5in?
For new bearings on a GM 8.5in 10-bolt, pinion preload is typically in the range of 20-25 inch-pounds. Always verify with the service manual for your specific vehicle application.
Is the MK GM8.5 the same as components used at the factory?
While Yukon Gear components meet or exceed OEM specifications, the MK GM8.5 is designed for service and rebuild use. Factory assembly uses automated torque processes; this kit is optimized for proper hand-tool installation.
What gear oil should I use after installing with MK GM8.5?
Use a 75W-90 or 80W-90 API GL-5 gear lubricant, adding the appropriate amount of friction modifier if the vehicle has a Positraction limited-slip differential.
Installation Instructions
- Lift and support the vehicle safely, then drain the differential fluid
- Disconnect the driveshaft from the pinion flange and mark the position for reinstallation
- Remove the pinion nut, pinion flange, and worn pinion seal from the housing
- Remove the original crush sleeve from the pinion shaft
- Clean all sealing and bearing surfaces, inspect for wear or damage
- Install the new crush sleeve from the YUKMK GM8.5 kit onto the pinion shaft
- Press the new pinion seal into the housing with the sealing lip facing inward
- Reinstall the pinion flange and tighten the pinion nut incrementally while monitoring rolling preload
- Apply marking compound with the included brush and check gear mesh pattern; use the Supershim kit to adjust pinion depth as needed
- Complete reassembly and fill the differential with the correct lubricant to the specified level
Proposition 65 Warning: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
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