GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

    • J 2619-01 Slide Hammer
    • J 8092 Handle
    • J 29794 Axle Shaft Remover Extension
    • J 33008-A Axle Shaft Puller
    • J 33832 Installer

Removal Procedure

Note: Both the right and left wheel drive shafts are serviced the same.

  1. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation.

  2. Object Number: 1848083  Size: SH

    Note: The following procedure is to ensure that the wheel drive shaft assembly does not rotate while the nut is being removed or tighten.

  3. Insert a brass drift or punch in the brake rotor so that the brass drift or punch rest against the brake caliper mounting bracket.
  4. Using the breaker bar and socket, loosen the wheel drive shaft nut.

  5. Object Number: 1848075  Size: SH

    Note: DO NOT re-use the wheel drive shaft nut, discard and use NEW.

  6. Remove the wheel drive shaft nut.
  7. Remove the wheel bearing/hub assembly. Refer to Rear Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement.
  8. Assemble the J 33008-A , J 29794 , and J 2619-01 .

  9. Object Number: 754567  Size: SH
  10. Assemble the J 33008-A , J 29794 , and J 2619-01 and position on the wheel drive shaft.

  11. Object Number: 1848068  Size: SH

    Note: Because of the design of the wheel drive shaft inner seal, the seal will be removed at the same time the wheel drive shaft is removed. Replace the seal, DO NOT re-use the seal. Replace with NEW.

  12. Using the J 33008-A , J 29794 , and J 2619-01 , remove the wheel drive shaft. Left side shown, right side similar.
  13. Note:  The rear knuckle does not have to be removed in order to service either the right or left rear the wheel drive shaft. The opening in the knuckle is large enough to allow the wheel drive shaft to pass through.

  14. Remove the wheel drive shaft through the knuckle.
  15. If servicing the right wheel drive shaft, remove the muffler assembly. Refer to Exhaust Muffler Replacement.

  16. Object Number: 1843257  Size: SH

    Note: DO NOT re-use the retaining clip, replace with NEW.

  17. Remove the retaining ring from the tripod.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 1850020  Size: SH
  1. Position the new seal in the wheel drive shaft seal. Left side shown, right similar.
  2. Assemble the J 33832 and the J 8092 .

  3. Object Number: 1850013  Size: SH
  4. Using the J 33832 and the J 8092 , install the wheel drive shaft seal.

  5. Object Number: 1849792  Size: SH
  6. Install the wheel drive shaft through the knuckle.
  7. Install the wheel bearing/hub assembly. Refer to Rear Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement.

  8. Object Number: 1848075  Size: SH
  9. Install the wheel drive shaft nut.
  10. Install the muffler assembly, if removed. Refer to Exhaust Muffler Replacement.

  11. Object Number: 1848091  Size: SH
  12. Insert a brass drift or punch in the brake rotor so that the brass drift or punch rest against the brake caliper mounting bracket.
  13. Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution in the Preface section.

  14. Using a torque wrench and socket, tighten the new wheel drive shaft nut.
  15. Tighten
    Tighten the nut to 205 N·m (151 lb ft).

  16. Check the fluid level in the rear differential for any fluid loss during the service procedure. Refer to Rear Axle Lubricant Level Inspection.
  17. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation.