Torque Tube Assembly: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Pontiac Montana, 2003 Oldsmobile Silhouette, and 2003 Chevrolet Venture. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: The drive pinion oil seal must be replaced whenever the torque tube is removed.

NOTE: The internal components of the torque tube assembly are not serviced separately. Replace the torque tube and internal components as an assembly. DO NOT remove the dampeners from the tube bracket. Removal and reinstallation may effect component noise and/or vibration levels.

Raise and support the vehicle. Position a jack stand under the front of the rear differential and firmly secure the differential to the jack. Remove the drive shaft. See DRIVE SHAFT & UNIVERSAL JOINTS in appropriate DRIVELINE/AXLE article. Remove the oil seal from the drive pinion housing, and discard.
Remove the bolts from the torque tube bracket. See Figure . Loosen, but DO NOT remove, the torque tube-to-bracket through-bolt and nut. Remove the torque tube-to-differential bolts. Pull the torque tube toward the front of the vehicle in order to disengage the torque tube from the differential pinion shaft. Remove the torque tube from the differential. Remove the oil seal from the drive pinion housing and discard.