GM 26010416 Rear Axle Drive Shaft

Raise the rear of the vehicle, support it securely on jackstands and block the front wheels. Remove the wheel and brake drum. On locking differential equipped models, remove both rear wheels and brake drums. Remove the differential cover and allow the lubricant to drain into a container. Remove the lock screw and pull out the pinion shaft. Have an assistant push in on the outer flanged end of the axle shaft while you remove the C-rock from the groove in the inner end of the shaft. Rotate the differential for access, support the pinion shaft so it won't fall into the case, then remove the lock screw. Withdraw the pinion shaft part way. Rotate the differential until the shaft touches the case, providing enough clearance for access to the C-locks. Use a screwdriver to rotate the C-lock until the open end points in. With the C-lock in position so it will pass through the end of the thrust block, push the axle shaft in and remove the C-lock. Repeat the operation for the opposite axle shaft. With the C-lock removed, withdraw the axle shaft, 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 axle shaft is removed. To install, carefully insert the axle shaft into the housing and seat it securely in the differential. Install the C-lock in the axle shaft groove and pull out on the flange to lock it. Insert the pinion shaft, align the hole in the shaft with the lock screw hole and install the lock screw. Tighten the lock screw to the torque. Install the C-locks with the pinion shaft still partially withdrawn. Make sure the C-locks are positioned correctly. Withdraw the axle shaft carefully until the C-lock clears the thrust block. After the C-locks are installed, push the pinion shaft into place with the groove lined up with the lock screw hole, then install the lock screw. Tighten the lock screw to the torque. Install the cover and fill the differential with the lubricant. Install the brake drums and wheels and lower the vehicle.

Hold the axle shaft level to engage the splines at the inner end with those in the differential side gear.

Loosen the hub nut 1/4-turn.