OEM 2000 Chevrolet Astro Axle Shaft

2000 Chevrolet Astro Axle Shaft Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to replace the front drive axle shaft on 2000 Chevrolet Astro?

  A: Before front drive axle replacement make accurate measurements of driveline components against the propeller shaft for proper reinstallation while preserving the factory system balance to achieve smooth driveline operation. Lock the steering column before using the lifted vehicle to secure the frame to a hoist using straps to keep the frame stationary. Insert a drift through the brake caliper into a brake rotor vane to stop Axle Shaft turning. Next, remove the tire and wheel assembly. After discarding the axle nut and washer users should take out the drift from the brake rotor. Start by disconnecting the brake hose bracket and wheel sensor wire bracket from the upper Control Arm before removing the brake caliper which needs support by wire to protect the brake hose and afterward extracting the brake rotor. First remove the shock absorber mounting hardware at the bottom then compress the shock absorber unit while placing a safety stand under the lower Control Arm to secure the Steering Knuckle assembly. The Steering Knuckle requires disconnection from its Axle Shaft through a combination of brass drift hits with a hammer which leads to separating the upper and lower Control Arm ball joints from the knuckle so you can move the Axle Shaft toward the differential carrier for knuckle removal. Lay wire across the knuckle for protection against outer tie rod and Wheel Speed Sensor wire strain then drop the safety stand to clear the Axle Shaft removal path while maintaining distance from differential carrier axle seals. Begin by covering components with shop towels to safeguard drive axle cv joint boots and proceed with removing the Axle Shaft from the front differential carrier by striking the tripot housing with a brass drift or wooden block. Operation of the vehicle and loading of front wheels must be avoided during this procedure. Access the Axle Shaft to examine the Steering Knuckle seal's condition and treat the seal lip afterward performing a replacement if needed. Installation requires components to be protected followed by shaft center alignment into the differential carrier through straight pushing until retaining ring seating. First ensure the retaining ring secures the drive axle before placing the drive axle in the Steering Knuckle and lifting the lower Control Arm to position the lower Ball Joint. Reassemble the lower Control Arm ball stud. First install the upper Control Arm Ball Joint along with the shock absorber and torque the bolt until it reaches 62 nm (46 ft. Lbs.). The process begins by putting back the brake rotor along with caliper and adding the Wheel Speed Sensor and brake hose brackets while you tighten their respective nuts to 16 nm (12 ft. Lbs.). Push a drift through the brake caliper to lock up the Axle Shaft rotation before adding washer and axle nut while torquing the nut to 200 nm (147 ft. Lbs.). Inspection should follow tire replacement together with front axle fluid level checking before proper fluid addition. Release the safety strap and stand then lower the vehicle down.