Axle Shaft Replacement

Rear Axle Shaft and/or Gasket Replacement

Removal Procedure





1. Remove the axle shaft cover bolts.
2. Remove the axle shaft cover.
Lightly tap on the axle shaft cover with a soft-faced hammer to loosen the cover.
3. Insert a bolt into the threaded hole in the axle shaft.





4. Remove the axle shaft from the axle tube by pulling on the axle shaft and the bolt.
5. Clean the axle shaft cover and the outside face of the hub assembly of sealant.

Installation Procedure





1. Install the axle shaft into the wheel hub.
Carefully guide the axle shaft through the axle tube and into the differential side gear turning the axle shaft as necessary in order to align the splines on the axle shaft with the splines on the differential side gear.

Important: The axle shaft is properly installed when the splines on the axle shaft are flush with the splines on the hub.

2. Install the axle shaft flange into the wheel hub.





3. Install the axle shaft cover gasket.
4. Install the axle shaft cover.

Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.

5. Install the axle shaft cover bolts.
^ Tighten the axle shaft cover bolts to 21 Nm (15 lb ft).
6. Inspect and add axle lubricant to the axle housing, if necessary.