GMC 2011 Sierra - Manual (Page 461)

Black plate (37,1) GMC Sierra Owner Manual - 2011
Vehicle Care 10-37
What to Use
Refer to Recommended Fluids
and Lubricants on page 11‑8 to
determine what kind of lubricant
to use.
Rear Axle
When to Check Lubricant
It is not necessary to regularly
check rear axle fluid unless a leak
is suspected or an unusual noise
is heard. A fluid loss could indicate
a problem. Have it inspected and
repaired.
All axle assemblies are filled by
volume of fluid during production.
They are not filled to reach a
certain level. When checking the
fluid level on any axle, variations
in the readings can be caused by
factory fill differences between the
minimum and the maximum fluid
volume. Also, if a vehicle has just
been driven before checking the
fluid level, it may appear lower than
normal because fluid has traveled
out along the axle tubes and has
not drained back to the sump
area. Therefore, a reading taken
five minutes after the vehicle has
been driven will appear to have a
lower fluid level than a vehicle that
has been stationary for an hour or
two. Remember that the rear axle
assembly must be supported to
get a true reading.
How to Check Lubricant
2500HD with 6.0 L
All Other Series and Engines
To get an accurate reading, the
vehicle should be on a level
surface.
. For all 4.3 L, 4.8 L and 5.3 L
1500 Series applications,
the proper level is 1.0 mm to
19.0 mm (0.04 in to 0.7 in)
below the bottom of the fill
hole, located on the rear axle.
Add only enough fluid to reach
the proper level.