GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 45859 Axle Remover

Removal Procedure

    Notice: When lifting the vehicle do not allow the jack to touch the rear steering gear. If the jack touches the rear steering gear you may damage the gear or the rack and pinion boots. If the boots are damaged replace the rack and pinion boot.

  1. Raise the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Remove the tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  3. Remove the brake rotor. Refer to Rear Brake Rotor Replacement in Disc Brakes.

  4. Object Number: 792872  Size: SH
  5. Remove the axle nut dust cover (4).
  6. Remove the cotter pin (2) and retainer (3) from the wheel drive shaft nut.
  7. Remove the wheel drive shaft retaining nut.

  8. Object Number: 792873  Size: SH
  9. Remove the wheel hub and bearing retaining bolts.

  10. Object Number: 876138  Size: SH
  11. Separate the wheel drive shaft from the wheel hub and bearing using J 45859 (2) or equivalent.

  12. Object Number: 876139  Size: SH
  13. Remove the wheel hub and bearing (1) from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 748889  Size: SH
  1. Install the wheel hub and bearing (3) to the vehicle.

  2. Object Number: 792873  Size: SH
  3. Install the wheel hub and bearing retaining bolts.
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 180 N·m (132 lb ft).


    Object Number: 792872  Size: SH

    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.

  5. Install the wheel drive shaft retaining nut.
  6. Tighten
    Tighten the nut to 250 N·m (184 lb ft).

  7. Install the retainer (3) and cotter pin (2) to the wheel drive shaft nut.
  8. Install the dust cap (4).
  9. Install the brake rotor. Refer to Rear Brake Rotor Replacement in Disc Brakes.
  10. Install the tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  11. Lower the vehicle.