Differential Assembly: Service and Repair

1. Raise and support vehicle, then position safety stands at rear frame members.
2. Drain lubricant from axle.
3. Mark driveshaft and pinion flanges for reassembly, then disconnect driveshaft at rear axle U-joint and remove driveshaft from transmission extension housing. Install seal replacer tool in extension housing to prevent leakage.
4. Disconnect shock absorbers at lower mountings.
5. Remove rear wheels and brake drums, then disconnect brake lines at wheel cylinders.
6. Disconnect vent hose from vent tube, then remove vent tube from brake junction and axle housing.
7. Remove clips retaining brake lines to axle housing.
8. Support rear axle housing using a suitable jack.
9. Disconnect upper control arms from mountings on axle housing, then carefully lower axle assembly until spring tension is relieved and remove coil springs. Disconnect lower control arms from axle housing.
10. Lower rear axle and remove from vehicle.
11. Reverse procedure to install.