Removal Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Pontiac Aztek and 2003 Buick Rendezvous. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Important: This procedure is for front-wheel-drive vehicles ONLY. The output shaft for all-wheel-drive vehicles is serviced with the transfer case which MUST be serviced with the transmission removed from the vehicle. For transfer case replacement, refer to TRANSFER CASE AND/OR SEAL REPLACEMENT .

Disconnect the left and right drive axles from the transaxle. Refer to AXLE SHAFT .
Remove the case extension housing. Refer to CASE EXTENSION HOUSING REPLACEMENT .

Fig 1: Removing Output Shaft (1 Of 2)
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the final drive differential. Refer to FINAL DRIVE REPLACEMENT .
Use the snap ring pliers in order to remove the compression ring (512) from the output shaft.
Important: Be careful not to damage the bearing on the output shaft.
Remove the output shaft through the left wheel opening.
Inspect the output shaft (510) and the bearing (511) for the following:
- A cracked or deformed bearing cage
- Damaged bushing journals
- Stripped splines
- A damaged retainer ring groove
Fig 2: Removing Output Shaft (2 Of 2)
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.