Removal Procedure

Unlock the steering column so that the steering linkage is free to move.
Raise the vehicle. Refer to LIFTING AND JACKING THE VEHICLE in General information.
Remove the drain plug and the flat washer. Drain the fluid fro the axle.

Fig 1: Drain Plug & Flat Washer
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the vent hose from the differential carrier.

Fig 2: Removing Vent Hose From Differential Carrier
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the idler arm bolts

Fig 3: Idler Arm Bolts
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Reposition the steering linkage to allow for the removal of the carrier.
Remove the front propeller shaft. Refer o PROPELLER SHAFT REPLACEMENT - FRONT in Propeller Shaft.
Remove the left and the right wheel drive shafts. Refer to WHEEL DRIVE SHAFT REPLACEMENT in Wheel Drive Shafts.
Support differential carrier assembly.

Fig 4: Supporting Differential Carrier Assembly
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the inner axle shaft housing and the inner axle shaft. Refer to INNER SHAFT AND/OR HOUSING REPLACEMENT-FRONT DRIVE AXLE .
Remove the differential carrier assembly upper mounting bolt and the nut.

Fig 5: Differential Carrier Assembly Lower Mounting Nuts & Bolts
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the differential carrier assembly lower mounting nuts and the bolts.
Remove the differential carrier assembly from the vehicle. Roll the carrier as necessary to clear the mounting brackets, the oil pan, and the steering linkage.