Axle Shaft Assembly: Service and Repair

Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement

Caution: Do not attempt to move vehicle with drive axle(s) removed from wheel bearing. Wheel(s) could fall off, dropping vehicle to the ground and causing personal injury or damage to the vehicle.


Tools Required

J 45859 Axle Remover


Removal Procedure





1. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation (Service and Repair) .
2. Remove the wheel drive shaft nut.




3. Remove the wheel drive shaft retaining bolts. Right side shown left side similar.




4. Remove the left wheel drive shaft from the front differential flange.




5. Remove the right wheel drive shaft from the differential flange.




6. Install the J 45859 . Right side shown, left side similar.
7. Using the J 45859 or equivalent, remove the front wheel drive shaft from the steering knuckle.




8. Remove the left wheel drive shaft from the vehicle.




9. Remove the right wheel drive shaft from the vehicle.



Installation Procedure

Important: Before installing the front wheel drive shaft in the steering knuckle, ensure that the splines on the drive shaft are free and clear of rust or dirt.







1. Install the right wheel drive shaft in the steering knuckle.
2. Install the right wheel drive shaft to the differential flange.
3. Perform the following procedure before installing the wheel drive shaft bolts.

1. Remove all traces of the original adhesive patch.
2. Clean the threads of the bolt with denatured alcohol or equivalent and allow to dry.
3. Apply Threadlocker, GM P/N 12345382 (Canadian P/N 10953489) to the threads of the bolt.






Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice .

4. Install the retaining bolts for the right wheel drive shaft. Right side shown; left side similar.

Tighten the wheel drive shaft retaining bolts to 79 N.m (58 lb ft).





5. Install the left wheel drive shaft in the steering knuckle.




6. Install the left wheel drive shaft to the differential flange.
7. Install the retaining bolts for the right wheel drive shaft.

Tighten the wheel drive shaft retaining bolts to 79 N.m (58 lb ft).





8. Install the wheel drive shaft retaining nuts.

Tighten the wheel drive shaft retaining nuts to 210 N.m (155 lb ft).

9. Inspect the fluid level of the front differential assembly. Refer to Front Axle Lubricant Level Inspection () .
10. Install the tires and wheels. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation (Service and Repair) .