Removal Procedure

IMPORTANT: This procedure is for front-wheel-drive vehicles ONLY. The output shaft for all-wheel-drive vehicles is serviced with the transfer case which MUST be serviced with the transmission removed from the vehicle. For transfer case replacement, refer to Transfer Case and/or Seal Replacement in Transfer Case - Steyr.

Disconnect the left and right drive axles from the transaxle. Refer to Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement - Front in Wheel Drive Shafts.
Remove the case extension housing. Refer to Case Extension Housing Replacement .
Remove the final drive differential. Refer to Final Drive Replacement .

Fig 1: Identifying Output Shaft Differential Carrier & Compression Ring

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Use the snap ring pliers in order to remove the compression ring (512) from the output shaft.

IMPORTANT: Be careful not to damage the bearing on the output shaft.

Remove the output shaft through the left wheel opening.

Fig 2: Inspecting Output Shaft & Bearing

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Inspect the output shaft (510) and the bearing (511) for the following:
- A cracked or deformed bearing cage
- Damaged bushing journals
- Stripped splines
- A damaged retainer ring groove