Removal Procedure

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Remove the wheel drive shaft. Refer to Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement (2500) , Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement (1500) .

Fig 1: Tripot Housing & Swage Ring

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

NOTE:

Use caution when using the hand grinder by the tripot housing (1).

Use a hand grinder in order to cut through the swage ring (2).
Remove the tripot housing (1) from the halfshaft.
Wipe the grease off of the housing (1).
Thoroughly degrease the tripot housing (1).
Allow the tripot housing (1) to dry prior to assembly.

Fig 2: Spacer Ring, Tripot Spider Assembly, Tripot Boot & Halfshaft Bar

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

Using side cutters, remove the small boot retaining clamp.
Remove the following items from the halfshaft bar:
1. The spacer ring (1)
2. The tripot spider assembly (2)
3. The tripot boot (3)
Clean the halfshaft bar (4). Use a wire brush in order to remove any rust in the seal mounting area (grooves).
Inspect the needle rollers, needle bearings, and trunnion. Inspect the tripot housing for unusual wear, cracks, or other damage. Replace any damaged parts with the appropriate service kit.