Q: How do I remove and install a driveaxle on Chevrolet Equinox,GMC Terrain and Pontiac Torrent?
A: To remove the front axle shaft, begin by breaking the axle shaft/hub nut loose with a socket and large breaker bar. Loosen the wheel lug nuts, raise the vehicle, and support it securely on jack stands. Remove the wheel and then separate the lower control arm from the steering knuckle and disconnect the tie-rod end and stabilizer bar from the steering knuckle. Remove the axle shaft/hub nut and swing the knuckle/hub assembly out until the axle shaft is free of the hub. For the right axle shaft, carefully pry the inner CV Joint off the intermediate shaft, and for the left axle shaft, pry the inner CV joint out of the transaxle. Support the CV joints and remove the axle shaft from the vehicle. To install the new axle shaft, remove the old spring clip from the inner end of the axle shaft (left side) or outer end of the intermediate shaft (right side) and replace it with a new one. Lubricate the Differential or intermediate shaft seal with multi-purpose grease and raise the axle shaft into position while supporting the CV joints. Push the splined end of the inner CV joint into the differential side gear (left side) or onto the intermediate shaft (right side) and ensure the spring clip locks in its groove. Apply a light coat of grease to the outer CV joint splines, insert the stub axle into the hub, and reconnect the balljoint stud into the steering knuckle, tightening the bolt to the proper torque specifications. Install a new cotter pin and reconnect the tie-rod ends and stabilizer bar links. Install a new axle shaft hub nut, but only tighten it securely without reaching the actual torque specification until the vehicle is lowered to the ground. Ensure the axle shaft has securely seated in the transaxle or on the intermediate shaft. Install the wheel and lug nuts, then lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts to the proper torque specifications. Finally, tighten the axle shaft/hub nut to the appropriate torque specifications and install the wheel center cover. For the rear, remove the wheel center cover and break the axle shaft hub nut loose. Block the wheels, loosen the lug nuts, raise the rear, and support it on jackstands. Remove the back wheel and use a brass punch to break the axle shaft loose. Remove the rear knuckle and remove it, replacing the retaining ring.