GMC 20768587 Front Drive Axle Inner Shaft

To check for wear, one can grasp each axle individually and rotate it in both directions while holding the CV joint housings. This allows the person to feel for play that indicates worn splines or sloppy joints. Additionally, it is important to inspect the driveaxle shafts for cracks, dents, and distortion.

If necessary, remove the stabilizer bar link for clearance.

Remove the pinion shaft lock screw, then for models with a conventional differential, take out the pinion shaft.

For coil spring models, detach the links for the electronic suspension control sensors from the trailing arms, detach the track bar from the rear axle, remove the stabilizer bar, and remove the coil springs. Then, disconnect the upper and lower trailing arms from the axle assembly, and lower the jack under the differential to remove the rear axle assembly.

Take the axle shaft to a qualified technician to replace the bearing and seal.

A fully independent front axle assembly features a differential and driveaxles with constant velocity joints, along with an extension axleshaft on the right side to accommodate the offset differential.

Before removing the rear axle assembly, the following components need to be removed: driveshaft, shock absorbers, vent hose, brake hose, rear brake assemblies, parking brake cables, and rear wheel speed sensors.

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

After raising the vehicle and securing it on jackstands, you should pry off the hub cover and remove the driveaxle/hub nut while bracing the hub to prevent it from rotating.

For coil spring models, the links for the electronic suspension control sensors should be detached, followed by detaching the track bar from the rear axle. The stabilizer bar, coil springs, and upper and lower trailing arms should be disconnected from the axle assembly. Finally, the jack can be lowered under the differential to remove the rear axle assembly.

4WD models use a fully independent front axle assembly.

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

For models with a locking differential, you should rotate the differential until the shaft touches the case for access to the C-locks.

To remove and install components in the front differential for 4WD systems, follow these steps: Remove the bolts securing the axle tube to the differential carrier and the nuts attaching the tube to its support bracket. Carefully remove the output shaft tube, ensuring no components fall out. Mount the tube in a vise and remove the internal components. Measure and remove the axleshaft bearing using a slide hammer and bearing remover attachment. For installation, install the bearing to the original depth using a bearing driver or socket, then install a new seal and deflector, lubricating the seal lips with grease. Carefully drive in the axleshaft, followed by the internal components. Apply RTV sealant to the tube-to-differential housing mating surface, and install the tube assembly, tightening bolts and nuts to specified torques. Reinstall the driveaxle, front axle shift motor, and fill the differential with lubricant.

The initial steps to remove and install components in the front differential of selectable 4WD systems are as follows: Loosen the wheel lug nuts. Raise the vehicle securely on jackstands. Remove the right front wheel. Remove the differential carrier splash shield if equipped. Drain the lubricant from the front differential. For 4WD systems, unbolt the right driveaxle from the axleshaft flange and support it out of the way. Remove the front axle shift motor and, if applicable, disconnect the front stabilizer link or remove the front shock absorber/coil spring assembly. On 2500/3500 models, remove the front axle bracket bolts and slide the bracket forward for additional clearance. Support the differential carrier with a floor jack and a block of wood.

4WD models use a fully independent front axle assembly.

If a boot is damaged, the CV joint can be disassembled and cleaned, but if any parts are damaged, the entire driveaxle assembly must be replaced as a unit.

The final step is to tighten the wheel lug nuts to the proper torque specifications.