GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Chevrolet 🢒 2006 🢒 Express 🢒 Driveline/Axle 🢒 Rear Drive Axle 🢒 Rear Axle Shaft and/or Gasket Replacement

Removal Procedure
  1. Raise the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .
  2. Remove the tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .

    3. Object Number: 665974 Size: SH
  3. Remove the flange bolts.
  4. Lightly tap the axle shaft with a soft-faced hammer in order to loosen the shaft.
  5. Grip the rib on the axle shaft flange with a locking pliers. Twist the axle shaft flange in order to start the axle shaft removal.
  6. Remove the axle shaft from the tube.
  7. Remove the gasket.
  8. Clean the axle shaft flange and the outside face of the hub assembly.

Installation Procedure

    Object Number: 665974 Size: SH
  1. Install the gasket onto the axle shaft.
  2. Install the gasket and the axle shaft into the axle tube.
    3. 2.1. Ensure the shaft splines mesh into the differential side gear.
    2.2. Align the holes in the axle flange and the gasket with the holes in the hub.

    Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.

  3. Install the axle flange bolts.

    4. Tighten

        • For the 10.5 inch axle, tighten the rear axle flange bolts to 156 N·m (115 lb ft).
        • For the 11.5 inch axle, tighten the rear axle flange bolts to 185 N·m (136 lb ft).
  4. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .
  5. Inspect and add axle lubricant to the axle housing, if necessary. Refer to Rear Axle Lubricant Level Inspection .
  6. Lower the vehicle.