Removal

REMOVAL

NOTE: This procedure requires the compression of the rear suspension to ride height. A drive-on hoist should be used. If a drive-on hoist is not used, screw-style under-hoist jack stands are required to compress the rear suspension, facilitating rear halfshaft removal.

CAUTION: Never grasp halfshaft assembly by the inner or outer boots. Doing so may cause the boot to pucker or crease, reducing the service life of the boot and joint. Avoid over angulating or stroking the C/V joints when handling the halfshaft.

1. With vehicle in neutral, position and raise vehicle on hoist.




2. Remove axle drain plug (1) and drain rear axle fluid into suitable container.
3. Install drain plug (1). Do not tighten at this time.
4. Remove the muffler Removal





5. Apply alignment index marks (3) to the propeller shaft rubber coupler (1) and axle flange (2).






NOTE: If re-using the propeller shaft coupler-to-axle flange fasteners, save the washers.

6. Remove three propeller shaft coupler (2) -to-axle flange (1) fasteners.






NOTE: Do not pry on the slinger (2).

7. Using suitable pry bar (1) in the location shown, partially disengage halfshaft(s) from axle assembly.





8. If a drive-on hoist is used, position transmission jack (1) to rear axle assembly. If a drive-on hoist is not used, compress rear suspension using screw-style under-hoist jack stands (2), then position transmission jack to rear axle assembly.





9. Remove the front mount bolt cover (1) located at the top of the axle carrier (2).






NOTE: The nut will turn free at the at the top of the axle carrier, it will need to be held with a deep socket during removal.

10. Remove rear axle front mount bolt (1) and nut (3).





11. Remove right rear axle-to-crossmember bolts (1).





12. Remove the left rear bolt.






NOTE: Do not pry on the axle halfshaft slinger.

13. Carefully lower rear axle. While lowering axle, separate right halfshaft (1) from axle and support with suitable rope or wire.





14. Remove left halfshaft (2).
15. Remove axle assembly from vehicle and transfer to bench.