Q: How to remove and install an axle shaft on 1999 Pontiac Grand Prix?
A: To remove the wheel cover, loosen the hub nut, and the wheel lug nuts, then raise the front of the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands. Apply the parking brake and block the rear wheels to prevent rolling. Remove the front wheel and place a drain pan under the transaxle. Next, remove the driveaxle hub nut by inserting a screwdriver through the caliper into a rotor cooling vane to hold the hub stationary. If working on a model with an integral strut/steering knuckle assembly, it is unnecessary to remove the driveaxle hub nut if accessing another component. Remove the brake caliper and disc, supporting the caliper with wire. For models with a separate strut/steering knuckle, remove the control arm-to-steering knuckle balljoint stud nut and separate the lower arm from the steering knuckle, then remove the ABS wheel speed sensor if equipped. Use a puller to push the driveaxle out of the hub and support the outer end with wire to prevent damage to the inner CV joint. For automatic transaxle models, use a slide hammer and adapter to separate the driveaxle from the transaxle, while for manual transaxle models, separate the right axle from the intermediate shaft and the left axle from the transaxle using the same method. Support the CV joints and carefully remove the driveaxle from the vehicle. For models with an integral strut/steering knuckle, remove the four bolts securing the hub bearing assembly to the steering knuckle, then carefully pry the driveaxle out of the transaxle. Support the CV joints and remove the driveaxle through the opening in the steering knuckle, taking care not to damage the boots or ABS exciter ring. If necessary, use a puller to remove the hub from the outer CV joint. For installation, lubricate the differential seal with multipurpose grease, raise the driveaxle into position while supporting the CV joints, and insert the splined end of the inner CV joint into the differential side gear, seating it with a screwdriver and hammer. Ensure the axle is securely seated by pulling out on the inner CV joint housing. For models with a separate strut/steering knuckle, apply grease to the outer CV joint splines, pull out on the assembly, and install the stub axle in the hub. Insert the control arm balljoint stud into the steering knuckle and tighten the nut, using a new cotter pin if necessary, and install the ABS wheel speed sensor if equipped. For models with an integral strut/steering knuckle, install the hub/bearing assembly onto the steering knuckle and tighten the mounting bolts. Finally, install the brake disc and caliper, a new driveaxle hub nut, check the transaxle lubricant level, and install the wheel before lowering the vehicle and putting on the wheel cover.