GM 15938628 AXLE

The hypoid, semi-floating rear axle assembly has a differential that permits the outer rear wheel to turn faster than the inner wheel while rounding corners. Through splining, the axleshafts can accommodate this speed variance with the differential side gears. Locking limited-slip rear axle is optional; such an axle acts as a conventional differential but contains multi-disc clutch packs that help in equalizing wheel rotation under low-traction conditions. A fully independent front axle assembly for the 4WD models consists of a differential and two driveaxles with inner and outer constant velocity (CV) joints. There are other causes which should be checked before thinking about axles: among them road noise, conditions of tires, or engine or transmission noise as they appear similar to axle problems . Thus, when it comes to performing any major overhaul on a differential, one may require special tools and this is not cost effective for do-it-yourselfers due to limitations in repairing procedures' scope-axleshaft-related tasks only like removing, installing, oil seal replacing, bearing replacing or removing of the whole unit for professional repair or replacement.

Loosen the rear wheel lug nuts and raise the rear of the vehicle. Support it securely on jackstands and block the front wheels. Remove the wheel and brake drum. Remove the differential cover and allow the lubricant to drain into a container. Remove the lock bolt. On models with a conventional differential, remove the pinion shaft. On models with a locking differential, withdraw the pinion shaft part way, then rotate the differential until the shaft touches the case. Have an assistant push in on the outer flanged end of the axleshaft while you remove the C-lock from the groove in the inner end of the shaft. With the C-lock removed, withdraw the axleshaft, taking care not to damage the oil seal. Some models have a thrust washer in the differential; make sure it doesn't fall out when the axleshaft is removed. To install, carefully insert the axleshaft into the housing and seat it securely in the differential. Install the C-lock in the axleshaft groove and pull out on the flange to lock it. Insert the pinion shaft, align the hole in the shaft with the lock bolt hole and install the lock bolt. Check the cover gasket and replace if necessary. Install the cover and tighten the bolts. Fill the differential with the specified lubricant. Install the brake drum, wheel, and lug nuts. Lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts.

Power is transmitted from the front differential/axle to the front wheels through a pair of driveaxles.

During the installation of the rear axle assembly, you should tighten the U-joint strap bolts to specific torque values, tighten all suspension fasteners to specific torque values, tighten the brake fasteners to specific torque values, bleed the brakes, install the wheels, and tighten the lug nuts to specific torque values.

To remove the hub cover, you can pry it off using a hammer and chisel. The driveaxle/hub nut should be removed and discarded.