Removal Procedure
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2017 GMC Canyon and 2017 Chevrolet Colorado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .
- Drain the front differential assembly. Refer to Front Axle Lubricant Replacement .
- Remove the steering gear skid shield. Refer to Steering Gear Skid Shield Replacement (without ZR2)Steering Gear Skid Shield Replacement (with ZR2) .
- Remove the front axle propeller shaft. Refer to Front Axle Propeller Shaft Replacement .
- Remove the front wheel drive shafts. Refer to Front Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement - Left SideFront Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement - Left Side (ZR2) , and Front Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement - Right SideFront Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement - Right Side (ZR2) .
- Disconnect the electrical connector for the electric motor actuator.
Unclip and reposition the harness for the electric motor actuator.
- Using a transmission jack stand or equivalent, support the front differential assembly.
- Remove axle assembly to frame rail bolts first (1). Then remove axle to cross member bolt (2) and nut (3).
- Disconnect the vent hose (1) from the axle assembly.
- Slide axle assembly (1) rearward over the cross member. Rotate forward part of axle down while lowering supporting jack to drop axle out of installed position.
Remove the axle assembly from the vehicle.
NOTE:
Lower the axle assembly approximately three inches. This must be done in order to access the vent hose.