GM 23119784 Axle Assembly, Rear

The initial steps are to loosen the wheel lug nuts, raise the front of the vehicle, and support it securely on jackstands.

For leaf spring models, the spring U-bolts should be disconnected, followed by removing the springplates. Then, the jack can be lowered under the differential to remove the rear axle assembly.

The outer ends of the driveaxles are equipped with ball-and-cage type CV joints capable of angular but not axial movement.

To remove and install components in the front differential for AWD systems, follow these steps: Remove the stabilizer bar link and, if applicable, the front shock absorber. Unbolt the right driveaxle from the axleshaft flange, supporting it properly. Support the differential carrier with a floor jack and a block of wood. Remove nuts attaching the axle shaft to its support bracket and the bolts securing the axle shaft flange to the differential carrier. Use a brass punch and hammer to separate the axle shaft from the differential case side gear. Remove the inner axle shaft assembly and axle shaft. Replace the inner seal and bearing with a special tool, then apply RTV sealant to the differential sealing surface and install the inner axle shaft housing assembly. Install the axle shaft to the support bracket and align the splines with the differential side gear. Tap the axle shaft with a mallet until the ring (clip) aligns with the groove in the differential case side gear. Install the axle shaft to the inner flange and tighten the bolts. Reinstall the stabilizer link, fill the differential with lubricant, install the differential carrier splash shield, and finally, install the wheel and lug nuts. Lower the vehicle, tighten the lug nuts, and check for proper operation.

The inner end of the driveaxle should be lowered and pulled out of the hub, carefully guiding the driveaxle out from under the vehicle.

To remove a full-floating axle shaft, you need to remove the bolts attaching the flange to the hub and withdraw the shaft from the housing.

The next step is to drain the differential lubricant and remove the differential cover.

When diagnosing axle problems, it is important to check for other possible causes such as road or tire noise, and to isolate engine and transmission noises.

The optional locking limited-slip rear axle slows the rotation of the differential case when one wheel loses traction.

To remove and install components in the front differential for AWD systems, follow these steps:Remove the stabilizer bar link and, if applicable, the front shock absorber.

For leaf spring models, the spring U-bolts should be disconnected, followed by removing the springplates. Then, the jack can be lowered under the differential to remove the rear axle assembly.

It is also important to check the driveaxle shafts for cracks, dents, and distortion.