Axle Shaft: Installation
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.
- Position the axle shaft to the differential output shaft. Carefully align and guide the axle shaft onto the differential output shaft. Install the axle shaft fully onto the differential output shaft using light force.
- Verify that the axle shaft is fully seated on the differential output shaft retaining ring by grasping the inner tripod housing and pulling outward. Do not pull on the axle shaft bar. The axle shaft will remain firmly in place when properly engaged.
- Begin to position the suspension knuckle to the axle shaft. Align and carefully guide the axle shaft into the hub and bearing but do not seat fully. Position the suspension knuckle to the upper control arm.
- Install the bolt and nut to the upper control arm/suspension knuckle assembly. Tighten bolt to specifications. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .
- Secure parking brake cable bracket. Install rear tie rod to rear suspension knuckle. Install tie rod-to-knuckle bolt. Tighten bolt to specifications. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .
- Install the brake caliper bracket. See REAR BRAKE CALIPER BRACKET under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION in DISC & DRUM article. Connect the wheel speed sensor electrical connector. Install parking brake cable routing bracket, if removed.
- Install parking brake cable routing bracket nut, if removed. Tighten the nut to specifications. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS . Set parking brake. Install a NEW axle shaft spindle nut. Slowly tighten the nut in order to draw the axle shaft spindle into the wheel hub and bearing. Tighten the axle shaft spindle nut to specifications. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .
- Install tire and wheel assembly. Tighten bolts to specifications. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS . Lower vehicle. Release parking brake.