Axle Shaft: Service and Repair

Fig. 98 Exploded View Of Rear Driveshaft Components:

Removal
1. Refer to Fig. 98 when replacing rear driveshafts.
2. Raise and support vehicle, then remove wheel and tire assemblies.
3. Remove cotter pin, locknut cap and locknut.
4. When removing righthand side driveshaft, it will be necessary to remove the O-ring style exhaust hangers and support tail pipe with wire.

Fig. 99 Removing Height Control Sensor:

Fig. 100 Removing Driveshaft Mounting Bolts:

5. On models with air suspension, disconnect height control sensor and remove both mounting bolts, then support with wire, Fig. 99.
6. Place alignment marks on driveshaft and side gear shaft with a marking pencil, Fig. 100.
7. Using hexagon socket tool No. SST 09043-38100 or equivalent, remove six bolts and two washers while depressing brake pedal.
8. Using a plastic faced hammer, lightly tap end of axle shaft through axle hub and remove driveshaft being careful not to damage axle shaft boots, speed sensor rotor and axle hub oil seal.

Installation
1. Insert outboard side of driveshaft through axle hub being careful not to damage axle shaft boots, speed sensor rotor and axle hub oil seal.
2. Align match marks on side gear shaft and driveshaft.
3. Apply a light coat of engine oil to threads of hexagon bolts, then using hexagon socket tool No. SST 09043-38100 or equivalent, torque to specifications.
4. On models with air suspension, connect height control sensor.
5. Install O-ring style exhaust hangers to tail pipe.
6. With brake pedal depressed, install locknut and torque to specification, then locknut cap and new cotter pin.
7. Install wheel and tire assembly and torque to specification, then check vehicle height.