Removal Procedure
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 GMC Sierra, 2004 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2004 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2004 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Release the park brake.
- Raise the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
- Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
- Remove the rear steering gear assembly. Refer to Steering Gear Actuator and Cover Replacement in Rear Wheel Steering.
- Remove the steering knuckle assembly. Refer to Steering Knuckle Replacement in Rear Wheel Steering.
- Remove the lock clip from the axle shaft end. The lock clip is spring loaded and fits securely in the axle shaft slot and may need to be push off the shaft end with a screw driver or related tool. Pushing the axle shaft inwards towards the gears my help in removal of the lock clip.
- Remove the axle shaft.
IMPORTANT:
When removing the axle shaft do not rotate the shaft. Rotating the shaft will cause the gears to move. Misalignment of the gears will make the assembly difficult.