Rear Axle Replacement

Rear Axle Replacement

Removal Procedure

Important: Observe and accurately mark the positions of all driveline components relative to the propeller shaft and axles prior to disassembly. These components include the propeller shaft, drive axles, pinion flanges, output shafts, etc. Reassemble all components in the exact relationship the components had to each other during removal. Follow specifications and torque values. Follow any measurements made prior to disassembly.

1. Raise the vehicle.
2. Place jack or utility stands (such as GMDE 1231367313) at the front end of the vehicle.
3. Support the rear axle with jack or utility stands.
4. Remove the wheel and tire assemblies.
5. For vehicles with RPO JL4, disconnect the electrical connector from the rear wheel speed sensor.
6. Remove the brake calipers from the rear axle. It is not necessary to disconnect the brake hose from the caliper. Support the brake calipers as necessary and set aside.
7. Disconnect the propeller shaft from the rear axle. Support the propeller shaft as necessary and set aside.
8. Disconnect the park brake cables.
9. Drain the lubricant from rear axle.
10. Remove the rear axle vent hose from the axle.
11. Disconnect the lower portion of the shock absorber from the rear axle.
12. Remove the rear spring U-bolts, the rear spring anchor plates and the rear spring spacers from the vehicle.
13. Remove the rear axle from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure

Important: Observe and accurately mark the positions of all driveline components relative to the propeller shaft and axles prior to disassembly. These components include the propeller shaft, drive axles, pinion flanges, output shafts, etc. Reassemble all components in the exact relationship the components had to each other during removal. Follow specifications and torque values. Follow any measurements made prior to disassembly.

1. Install the rear axle to the vehicle. Support the rear axle with jack or utility stands.
2. Install the rear spring U-bolts, the rear spring anchor plates and the rear spring spacers to the vehicle.
3. Connect the lower portion of the shock absorber to the rear axle.
4. Install the rear axle vent hose to the rear axle.
5. Connect the park brake cable to the rear axle.
6. Connect the propeller shaft to the rear axle.
7. Install the brake calipers.
8. For vehicles with RPO JL4, connect the electrical connector to the rear wheel speed sensor.
9. Install the wheel and tire assemblies.
10. Fill the rear axle with the proper axle lubricant.
11. Remove the jack or utility stands.
12. Lower the vehicle.