GM 15830031 Axle Assembly, Rear (3.73 Ratio)

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The rear axle assembly of the vehicle is a hypoid, semi-floating type with a differential that allows the outer rear wheel to turn at a higher speed than the inner tire when going around a corner. An optional locking limited-slip rear axle is also available, which slows the rotation of the differential case when one wheel loses traction. On 4WD models, a fully independent front axle assembly is used with an extension axle shaft on the right side to make up the difference in distance between the differential and the right front wheel. When diagnosing axle problems, it is important to check for other possible causes such as road or tire noise, and to isolate engine and transmission noises. Overhauling the differential requires special tools and is not cost-effective for a do-it-yourselfer.

After raising the vehicle and securing it on jackstands, you should pry off the hub cover and remove the driveaxle/hub nut while bracing the hub to prevent it from rotating.

The final step is to tighten the wheel lug nuts to the proper torque specifications.

Before removing the rear axle assembly, the following components need to be removed: driveshaft, shock absorbers, vent hose, brake hose, rear brake assemblies, parking brake cables, and rear wheel speed sensors.

If a boot is damaged, the CV joint can be disassembled and cleaned, but if any parts are damaged, the entire driveaxle assembly must be replaced as a unit.

Yes, there is an optional locking limited-slip rear axle available.

The initial steps to remove and install components in the front differential of selectable 4WD systems are as follows: Loosen the wheel lug nuts. Raise the vehicle securely on jackstands. Remove the right front wheel. Remove the differential carrier splash shield if equipped. Drain the lubricant from the front differential. For 4WD systems, unbolt the right driveaxle from the axleshaft flange and support it out of the way. Remove the front axle shift motor and, if applicable, disconnect the front stabilizer link or remove the front shock absorber/coil spring assembly. On 2500/3500 models, remove the front axle bracket bolts and slide the bracket forward for additional clearance. Support the differential carrier with a floor jack and a block of wood.

The outer ends of the driveaxles are equipped with ball-and-cage type CV joints capable of angular but not axial movement.

To remove the semi-floating axle shaft, you need to remove the C-lock from the groove on the inner end of the axleshaft and withdraw the shaft, being careful not to damage the oil seal.

To remove and install components in the front differential for AWD systems, follow these steps: Remove the stabilizer bar link and, if applicable, the front shock absorber. Unbolt the right driveaxle from the axleshaft flange, supporting it properly. Support the differential carrier with a floor jack and a block of wood. Remove nuts attaching the axle shaft to its support bracket and the bolts securing the axle shaft flange to the differential carrier. Use a brass punch and hammer to separate the axle shaft from the differential case side gear. Remove the inner axle shaft assembly and axle shaft. Replace the inner seal and bearing with a special tool, then apply RTV sealant to the differential sealing surface and install the inner axle shaft housing assembly. Install the axle shaft to the support bracket and align the splines with the differential side gear. Tap the axle shaft with a mallet until the ring (clip) aligns with the groove in the differential case side gear. Install the axle shaft to the inner flange and tighten the bolts. Reinstall the stabilizer link, fill the differential with lubricant, install the differential carrier splash shield, and finally, install the wheel and lug nuts. Lower the vehicle, tighten the lug nuts, and check for proper operation.

For leaf spring models, the spring U-bolts should be disconnected, followed by removing the springplates. Then, the jack can be lowered under the differential to remove the rear axle assembly.

To remove the semi-floating axle shaft, you need to remove the C-lock from the groove on the inner end of the axleshaft and withdraw the shaft, being careful not to damage the oil seal.