Removal Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Cadillac DTS. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Locating Wheel Drive Shaft Inner Joint Components

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

NOTE: Do not cut through the wheel drive shaft inboard seal during service. Cutting through the seal may damage the sealing surface of the housing and the tripot bushing. Damage to the sealing surface may lead to water and dirt intrusion and premature wear of the constant velocity joint.

If equipped with a small swage ring, use a hand grinder to cut through the swage ring, taking care not to damage the halfshaft bar, in order to remove the swage ring. Otherwise, remove the small seal retaining clamp with a side cutter. Discard the retaining clamp.
Remove the large seal retaining clamp (2) from the tripot joint with side cutters. Discard the large seal retaining clamp.
Separate the inboard seal from the trilobal tripot bushing (3) at the large diameter.
Slide the seal away from the joint along the halfshaft bar.

Fig 2: View Of Housing, Tripot Joint Spider & Halfshaft Bar
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the housing (1) from the tripot joint spider and the halfshaft bar (2).

Fig 3: Spreading Spacer Ring
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Spread the spacer ring (1) using J 8059 (or equivalent).

Fig 4: View Of Spider Assembly, Rings & Tripot Boot
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the spacer ring (1), spider assembly (2), spacer ring (3) (if equipped) using J 8059 , and tripot boot (4). See Special Tools . Discard the boot and rings.
Clean the halfshaft bar (5). Use a wire brush in order to remove any rust in the boot mounting area (grooves).
Inspect the needle rollers, needle bearings, and trunnion. Check the tripot housing for unusual wear, cracks, or other damage. Replace any damaged parts with the appropriate kit.