Drive Axles, Bearings and Joints: Service and Repair

1. Raise vehicle and support using jack stands under both frame side rails.
2. Mark drive shaft and pinion flange for reassembly, then disconnect drive shaft at pinion flange and remove drive shaft from transmission extension housing. Install seal replacer tool in extension housing to prevent leakage.
3. Disconnect parking brake cable and brake lines. Cover brake lines to prevent contamination.
4. Support axle with jack, then lower axle far enough to relieve spring tension.
5. Disconnect shock absorbers at lower mounting brackets.
6. If equipped, disconnect track bar from axle housing stud.
7. Remove nuts, washers and pivot bolts connecting lower suspension arms to axle housing, then disconnect both arms from housing.
8. Remove nuts, bolts, washers and two eccentric washers, then disconnect upper suspension arm from axle housing.
9. Lower rear axle and remove from vehicle.