Rear Axle Replacement (8.6, 9.5, 10.5 Inch Axle)

Rear Axle Replacement (8.6, 9.5, 10.5 Inch Axle)

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 axle, pinion flanges, and output shafts. Reassemble all components in the exact relationship the components had to each other during removal. Follow the specifications and torque values. Follow any measurements made prior to disassembly.

1. Raise the vehicle.
2. Place jack or utility stands (such as GMDE 123-B67313) at the front end of the vehicle.
3. Drain the axle lubricant from the rear axle.
4. Disconnect the propeller shaft. Refer to One-Piece Propeller Shaft Replacement or Two-Piece Propeller Shaft Replacement Service and Repair.
5. Remove the tire and wheel assemblies.
6. Disconnect the parking brake cable. Refer to Park Brake Cable Replacement Service and Repair.
7. Remove the brake line bracket bolts. Suspend the brake lines from the vehicle with heavy mechanics wire.
8. Disconnect the shock absorbers from the axle brackets. Refer to Shock Absorber Replacement Service and Repair.
9. Remove the vent hose from the rear axle vent fitting.






10. Remove the nuts and the washers from the U-bolts.






11. Remove the U-bolts (4), the spring plates (7) and the spacers (8) from the axle assembly.
12. Lower the axle assembly.

Installation Procedure

1. Transfer any necessary parts to the replacement axle.






2. Place the rear axle assembly under the vehicle.
3. Align the rear axle assembly with the springs.
4. Install the spacers (8), the spring plates (7) and the U-bolts (4) to the rear axle.
5. Raise the rear axle assembly into position.

Notice:

6. Install the washers and the nuts to the U-bolts.

Tighten
- Tighten the nuts (with attached washer) to 72 Nm (53 lb ft).
- Tighten the nuts (without attached washer) to 137 Nm (101 lb ft).

7. Install the vent hose to the rear axle vent fitting.






8. Connect the shock absorbers to the rear axle. Refer to Shock Absorber Replacement Service and Repair.
9. Install the brake lines and the brake line bracket bolts to the axle.
10. Connect the parking brake cable. Refer to Park Brake Cable Replacement Service and Repair.
11. Install the tire and wheel assemblies.
12. Connect the propeller shaft. Refer to One-Piece Propeller Shaft Replacement or Two-Piece Propeller Shaft Replacement Service and Repair.
13. Fill the axle with lubricant. Use the proper fluid. Refer to Approximate Fluid Capacities and Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations Specifications.
14. Remove the utility stands.
15. Lower the vehicle.