Rear Drive Axle Housing: Removal

Raise and support vehicle on frame rails, allowing clearance for spring removal. Remove rear wheels. Index mark rear drive shaft and axle yokes for reassembly reference. Remove drive shaft.
Disconnect track bar (some models) at axle bracket. Disconnect axle vent tube at axle. Disconnect parking brake cables at equalizer. Disconnect shock absorbers at axle and disconnect brake hose from floorpan fitting. Plug hose end to prevent dirt contamination.
Loosen, but DO NOT remove bolts attaching spring eyes to frame brackets and shackles. Remove spring "U" bolts and tie plates. Support axle housing with a hydraulic jack. Raise axle housing just enough to relieve weight from springs.
Remove bolts attaching springs to frame bracket and shackles, then lower springs to the floor. Lower jack slowly, checking for clearance, and remove drive axle housing assembly from vehicle.