GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Warning: 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.

Special Tools

J 45859 Axle Remover

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 731551  Size: SH
  1. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation.
  2. Remove the wheel drive shaft nut.

  3. Object Number: 1199394  Size: SH
  4. Remove the wheel drive shaft retaining bolts. Right side shown left side similar.

  5. Object Number: 1199424  Size: SH
  6. Remove the left wheel drive shaft from the front differential flange.

  7. Object Number: 1199394  Size: SH
  8. Remove the right wheel drive shaft from the differential flange.

  9. Object Number: 870456  Size: SH
  10. Install the J 45859 . Right side shown, left side similar.
  11. Using the J 45859 or equivalent, remove the front wheel drive shaft from the steering knuckle.

  12. Object Number: 1203830  Size: SH
  13. Remove the left wheel drive shaft from the vehicle.

  14. Object Number: 1199424  Size: SH
  15. Remove the right wheel drive shaft from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure

Note: Before installing the front wheel drive shaft in the steering knuckle, ensure that the splines on the drive shaft are free and clear of rust or dirt.


    Object Number: 1199391  Size: SH
  1. Install the right wheel drive shaft in the steering knuckle.
  2. Install the right wheel drive shaft to the differential flange.
  3. Perform the following procedure before installing the wheel drive shaft bolts.
  4. 3.1. Remove all traces of the original adhesive patch.
    3.2. Clean the threads of the bolt with denatured alcohol or equivalent and allow to dry.
    3.3. Apply Threadlocker, GM P/N 12345382 (Canadian P/N 10953489) to the threads of the bolt.

    Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 1199394  Size: SH
  5. Install the retaining bolts for the right wheel drive shaft. Right side shown; left side similar and tighten to 79 N·m (58 lb ft).

  6. Object Number: 1203830  Size: SH
  7. Install the left wheel drive shaft in the steering knuckle.

  8. Object Number: 1199424  Size: SH
  9. Install the left wheel drive shaft to the differential flange.
  10. Install the retaining bolts for the right wheel drive shaft and tighten to 79 N·m (58 lb ft).

  11. Object Number: 731551  Size: SH
  12. Install the wheel drive shaft retaining nuts and tighten to 210 N·m (155 lb ft).
  13. Inspect the fluid level of the front differential assembly. Refer to Front Axle Lubricant Level Inspection.
  14. Install the tires and wheels. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation.