Axle Beam

Fig. 2 Control Arm Bracket Installation. Except AWD Models:

When removing rear axle assembly, do not use twin-post type hoist. The swing arc tendency of this axle may cause it to slip from hoist. Perform axle removal on floor if necessary.
1. Raise rear of vehicle and support rear axle using a jack.
2. Remove rear wheel assembly and brake drum. Do not hammer on brake drum since damage to bearings may result.
3. Disconnect parking brake cable from equalizer, then remove brake line brackets from frame.
4. Disconnect shock absorber from lower mountings on axle housing.
5. Remove track bar attaching nut and bolt, then disconnect track bar. Do not suspend rear axle by brake hoses, otherwise damage to hoses may result.
6. Carefully lower rear axle assembly, then remove coil spring and insulators.
7. Disconnect brake lines from control arm attachments.
8. Remove parking brake cable from rear axle attachments.
9. Remove hub attaching bolts, then the hub and bearing assembly. Position backing plate out of way.
10. Remove control arm bracket to underbody attaching bolts (four each side), then lower axle assembly and remove from vehicle.
11. Reverse procedure to install, noting the following:
a. If control arm brackets were removed from control arms, install control arm bracket at a 40-44° angle as shown in Fig. 2.
b. Torque all bolts/nuts to specifications.