Inner Axle Shaft and/or Housing Replacement

Removal Procedure





Important: Observe and accurately reference mark the positions of all driveline components relative to the propeller shaft prior to disassembly. These components include the propeller shafts, drive axles, pinion flange, inner axle shafts, etc. Reassemble all components in the exact relationship the components had to one another prior to disassembly. Follow the specifications, torque values and any measurement made prior to disassembly in order to maintain the factory system balance of the driveline components. System balance provides a smoother running driveline operation.

1. Raise the vehicle. Refer to Vehicle Lifting.
2. Position a drain under the inner axle shaft housing.
3. Remove the right wheel drive shaft. Refer to Wheel Drive Shafts Replacement.

Important: Be careful not to damage the seal surface when pulling the splined shaft through the seat.

4. Remove the right inner axle shaft from the housing.
4.1. Protect the end of the inner axle shaft housing and the seal with a shop towel.
4.2. Insert a bent screwdriver into the inner axle shaft retaining ring slot.
4.3. Pry the screwdriver against the shop towel in order to disengage the inner axle shaft from the side gear.





5. Remove the inner axle housing to support bracket bolts, nuts and washers.
6. Remove the inner axle shaft housing to differential carrier bolts.
7. Remove the inner axle shaft housing.
8. Clean the sealing surfaces of the inner axle shaft housing and the carrier with a chlorinated solvent.

Installation Procedure





Important: Reassemble all components in the exact relationship the components had to one another prior to disassembly. Follow the specifications, torque values and any measurement made prior to disassembly in order to maintain the factory system balance of the driveline components. System balance provides a smoother running driveline operation.

1. Apply a bead of sealer (GM P/N 12345739 or equivalent) to the carrier sealing surface.
2. Install the inner axle shaft and the housing assembly.

Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.

3. Install the inner axle shaft housing to the differential carrier assembly bolts.
^ Tighten the bolts to 48 Nm (36 ft. lbs.).




4. Install the axle shaft housing to support bracket bolts, nuts and washers.
^ Tighten the nuts to 73 Nm (54 ft. lbs.).
5. Install the right wheel drive shaft. Refer to Wheel Drive Shafts Replacement.
6. Inspect the axle lubricant level and add, as necessary. Use the proper fluid. Refer to Lubrication Specifications and Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations.
7. Lower the vehicle.