GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

    • J 2619-01 Slide Hammer
    • J 28733-B Front Hub Spindle Remover
    • J 29794 Extension
    • J 33008 Axle Shaft Remover

Object Number: 163922  Size: SH

Notice: When servicing the hub assembly, be careful not to damage the ABS components. If any of the ABS components are damaged, the ABS system may not function properly and the damaged component will need to be replaced.

The ABS exciter ring is shown.

    Important: Prevent the boots (seals) from contacting the other components in order to prevent damage to the boots (seals).

  1. Remove the wheel cover or hub cap. Refer to Aluminum Wheel Hub Cap Replacement in Tires and Wheels.

  2. Object Number: 193881  Size: SH
  3. Remove the front wheel drive shaft nut (1).
  4. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  5. Remove the tire and the wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  6. Remove the brake caliper/bracket and rotor. Refer to Front Brake Caliper Replacement and Front Brake Rotor Replacement in Disc Brakes.
  7. Disconnect the front wheel speed sensor connector and remove the front wheel drive shaft bearing. Refer to Front Wheel Drive Shaft Bearing Replacement in Front Suspension.

  8. Object Number: 163929  Size: SH

    Caution: Do not attempt to move vehicle with drive axle(s) removed from wheel bearing. Wheel(s) could fall off, dropping vehicle to the ground and causing personal injury or damage to the vehicle.

  9. Use the J 33008 , the J 29794 and the J 2619-01 in order to separate the right side front wheel drive axle (1) from the transaxle.

  10. Object Number: 163932  Size: SH
  11. Use the following steps in order to separate the left side front wheel drive axle shaft (1) from the transaxle:
  12. • Use the frame for leverage
    • Place a flat-bladed tool into the groove provided on the front wheel drive shaft tri-pot joint. Use the flat-bladed tool in order to separate the left side front wheel drive axle shaft (1) from the transaxle.

    Object Number: 163934  Size: SH
  13. Remove the front wheel drive shaft bearing through the steering knuckle.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 163934  Size: SH

    Important: Prevent the boots (seals) from contacting the other components in order to prevent damage to the seals (boots).

  1. Install the front wheel drive shaft bearing through the steering knuckle and into the transaxle.
  2. Loosely secure the wheel drive shaft bearing bolts at the steering knuckle.
  3. Seat the axle into the transaxle.
  4. • Use a flat-bladed tool. Place the tool into the groove provided on the front wheel drive shaft tri-pot joint.
    • Pry against the frame for leverage.
  5. Perform the following steps to verify that the front wheel drive shaft retaining ring is properly seated.
  6. 4.1. Use a screwdriver to tap on the inner groove.
    4.2. Grasp the inner housing and pull the inner housing outboard. Do not pull on the front wheel drive axle shaft.

    When the front wheel drive shaft retaining ring is properly seated, the front wheel drive axle will remain in place.

  7. Attach the front wheel speed sensor connector and install the front wheel drive shaft bearing. Refer to Front Wheel Drive Shaft Bearing Replacement in Front Suspension.

  8. Object Number: 193881  Size: SH

    Important: Always use a new front wheel drive shaft nut.

  9. Install a new front wheel drive shaft nut (1).
  10. Install the wheel and the tire. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  11. Install the brake caliper/bracket and rotor. Refer to Front Brake Caliper Replacement and Front Brake Rotor Replacement in Disc Brakes.
  12. Lower the vehicle.
  13. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  14. Tighten the front wheel drive shaft nut (1).
  15. Tighten
    Tighten the front wheel drive shaft nut to 215 N·m (159 lb ft).

  16. Install the wheel cover or hub cap. Refer to Aluminum Wheel Hub Cap Replacement in Tires and Wheels.
  17. Inspect the transaxle fluid level. Fill as necessary.