The front axles in mid-size and full-size trucks are designed to allow the use of equal-length wheel drive shafts. Due to the mounting positions in the vehicle, the differential is not centered, but rather positioned on the left side of the axle housing. Most service procedures are done with the axle assembly out of the truck, which requires holding the axle housing to allow a technician to perform the repairs.
GM-52297 attaches to the left side of the housing in place of the mounting bushing bracket on the 190 mm ring gear and 8.0” ring gear axles, and is installed into the previously Essential GM-03289-20 bench mount to hold the axle in the desired position to service it. GM-52297 allows the axle to be rotated through 360 degrees and locked at 90-degree intervals, which is especially useful when measuring for the required pinion shim or when installing the differential, which may need to be driven into place. Unapproved methods may lead to loss of control of the housing during service.