To remove the axle shaft from a vehicle, start by blocking the front wheels to prevent rolling. Then, loosen the wheel lug nuts and raise the rear of the vehicle, supporting it securely on jack stands. Remove the wheels and use a punch or small chisel to unstake the axle shaft/hub nut. Unscrew the axle shaft/hub nut with a socket and large breaker bar, discarding it and obtaining a new one for installation. Tap the end of the axle shaft with a soft-faced hammer to loosen it from the hub splines. If it's stuck, use a puller to push it from the hub. Disconnect the ABS wheel speed sensor electrical connector and remove the rear brake caliper. Detach the upper control arm from the knuckle and tilt the knuckle outward while pulling the axle shaft out of the knuckle. Remove the three-tang washer from the end of the axle shaft, discarding it and obtaining a new one for installation. Pry the inner end of the axle shaft out of the
Differential and remove the axle shaft from the vehicle. To install a new axle shaft, apply a light film of grease to the inner CV joint stub shaft and insert it into the differential, ensuring the spring clip locks in its groove. Apply grease to the outer CV joint splines and the knuckle, then insert the outer end of the axle shaft into the hub. The rest of the installation is the reverse of removal. Install a new axle shaft/hub nut, tightening it to the specified torque and staking the collar into the axle shaft groove with a hammer and punch. Check the differential lubricant level and add more if necessary. Finally, install the wheels and lug nuts, lower the vehicle, and tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque.