GM 88957151
Axle Assembly

The procedure to replace the front (right) wheel drive shaft starts by suspending the vehicle then converting the right front wheel assembly. The disconnect operation for the right outer Tie Rod End from the Steering Knuckle should be performed without disturbing the Tie Rod End jam nut. Drive a drift tool or punch the inside of the brake rotor as it faces the Brake Caliper Bracket to stop Wheel Hub and bearing rotation. Begin by removing and discarding the right front wheel drive shaft Spindle Nut and use a new nut for install. The Wheel Speed Sensor electrical connection should be disconnected while moving the wiring harness out of the Ball Joint area. Secure the Wheel Hub remover (J 45859) by threading wheel nut screws into position on the Wheel Hub and support the drive shaft to extract it completely. The Wheel Hub remover (J 45859) helps users disengage the right front wheel drive shaft from the Wheel Hub and bearing before extracting it from the Wheel Hub. Connect the slide hammer with adapter (J 2619-O1) to extension (J 29794) and Axle Shaft puller (J 45341) and use the Axle Shaft puller (J 45341) to attach it at the wheel drive shaft inner joint pull groove. The wheel drive shaft needs to be separated enough from the Differential to install seal protector (J 44394) between the Differential output shaft seal to avoid damage. The repair specialist should install the Differential output seal protector (J 44394) inside the Differential output shaft seal before extracting the wheel drive shaft from the vehicle. Insert newly provided wheel drive shaft retaining rings into the retaining ring groove but replenish the seal protector (J 44394) into the Differential output shaft seal only if it got removed. Make sure to avoid touching the oil seal during wheel drive shaft installation then continue pushing the shaft forward until the retaining ring sits completely within. Check correct joint involvement by applying outward force directly on the interior component housing of the joint. Reconnect the right front wheel drive shaft to its hub and bearing connection before you join the Steering Knuckle to the right upper Ball Joint and restore connection of Wheel Speed Sensor electrical cables. First tighten the new Spindle Nut loosely then place a drift or punch into the rotor while it rests against the caliper mounting bracket before applying torque of 160 nm (118 ft. Lbs.). The drift and punch must be taken off the rotor after which the outer Tie Rod End should be linked to the Steering Knuckle followed by installation of tire and wheel assembly and vehicle lowering.

Install the Wheel Hub Remover (J 45859) onto the wheel hub and secure it with wheel nuts, ensuring to support the wheel drive shaft until it is fully removed.

Install the new wheel drive shaft retaining ring on the splined shaft of the inner joint housing.