Axle Housing

Axle Housing
Removal
1. Remove the axle shafts.





2. Mark the driveshaft flange and pinion flange for correct alignment during installation.





3. Remove the four driveshaft bolts.





4. CAUTION: The driveshaft centering socket yoke fits tightly on the rear axle pinion flange pilot. Never hammer on the driveshaft or any of its components to disconnect the yoke from the flange. Pry only in the area shown with a suitable tool to disconnect the yoke from the flange.

Using a suitable tool as shown, disconnect the driveshaft centering socket yoke from the rear axle pinion flange.
^ Position the driveshaft aside.





5. Disconnect the rear brake anti-lock sensor electrical connector and wiring harness clips.





6. NOTE: Do not disconnect the brake lines from the brake hose junction block.

Disconnect the brake hose junction block from the rear axle housing.
7. Disconnect the rear axle housing vent hose from the rear axle housing.





8. CAUTION: Pull the brake lines from the retaining clips.

Disconnect the rear brake drum backing plates and wire them out of the way.





9. Position a suitable jack under the rear axle housing and strap it securely in place.





10. Remove the two lower shock absorber nuts and bolts.





11. Remove the rear axle U-bolt assembly.
1. Remove the four rear spring plate nuts.
2. Remove the two rear spring plate U-bolts.
3. Remove the rear spring plate.
4. Repeat the procedure for the other side.
12. Lower the rear axle from the vehicle.











13. CAUTION: The driveshaft centering socket yoke fits tightly on the rear axle pinion flange pilot. To ensure that the yoke seats squarely on the flange, tighten the bolts evenly in a cross pattern as shown.

To install, reverse the removal procedure.