To remove the rear axle, first raise the rear of the vehicle and support it with jackstands under the frame rails, then remove the rear wheels. Disconnect the driveshaft from the rear axle, the ABS sensor if equipped, and the parking brake cable from the parking brake lever. Unscrew the vent hose fitting to detach the brake line junction block from the axle tube, and disconnect the brake lines from the clips and brackets on the axle housing. If equipped, remove the rear brake calipers, ensuring to tie them up with wire to avoid strain on the flexible brake lines. Support the rear axle with a floor jack, using two jacks if the rear differential is offset. Remove the lower mounting bolts securing the rear shocks to the axle, then, while supporting the axle, remove the nuts and U-bolts securing the axle to the springs. Lower the axle assembly and remove it from under the vehicle. For installation, follow the reverse of the removal procedure, tightening the U-bolt nuts and caliper mounting bolts to the specified torque, and check and fill the axle with the appropriate lubricant if necessary.