Removal

NOTE: Axle shafts, wheel hubs, wheel hub bearings, and the wheel hub grease seals can be replaced without removing the differential assembly from the axle housing or the rear axle assembly from the vehicle.

The axle shafts, wheel hubs, bearings and grease seals may be replaced, lubricated, or adjusted as outlined in Wheel Hubs and Bearings-Rear (Full Floating Axle).

1. Loosen the wheel stud nuts and the axle shaft to hub retaining bolts.

2. Disconnect the rear shock absorbers from the rear axle, and unclamp the rear stabilizer bar. Then raise the rear end of the vehicle frame until the weight is off the rear springs. Place safety stands under the frame in this position.

3. Disconnect the flexible hydraulic brake line at the frame.

4. Disconnect the parking brake cable (if so equipped) at the equalizer, and remove the cables from the cable support brackets.

5. Disconnect the driveshaft from the rear U-joint flange.

6. Remove the nuts from the rear spring clips (U-bolts), and remove the spring seat caps.

7. Roll the axle from under the vehicle, and drain the lubricant. Remove the wheels. Mount the axle in a work stand. To remove axle shafts, hubs and drums or hub and rotor assemblies refer to Wheel Hubs and Bearings-Rear (Full Floating Axle).