Rear Axle Replacement: 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.
WARNING:
When removing the rear springs, do not use a twin-post type hoist. The swing arch tendency of the rear axle assembly when certain fasteners are removed may cause it to slip from the hoist which may cause personal injury.
- Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to LIFTING AND JACKING THE VEHICLE .
- Remove the rear tires and wheels. Refer to TIRE AND WHEEL REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION .
- Use a utility stand in order to support the rear axle.
- Remove the rear axle coil springs, the spring seats and the spring insulators. Refer to COIL SPRING REPLACEMENT .
- Remove the backing plate. Refer to The following:
- For 2003 models, see DRUM BRAKE BACKING PLATE .
- Disconnect the intermediate brake hoses from the rear axle brake pipes.
- Use the utility stand in order to lower the rear axle.
- Remove the utility stand.
- Lower the vehicle until the rear axle is approximately 13 mm (0.50 in) above the ground.
- Remove the rear axle control arm bolts and nuts.
- Remove the rear axle.
- Remove the brake pipes and the brake hoses from the rear axle.