For 1990-2009 cars

#### Tools Required

J 36214 Axle Stud Cone Plier

### Removal Procedure

1. Apply the parking brake.
2. Block the wheels.
3. Remove the rear axle shaft housing cover nuts (1).
4. Remove the rear axle shaft housing cover washers (2).

Notice: Do not strike the rear axle housing cover with a hammer. This may damage the rear axle shaft. Do not use a chisel or wedge to loosen the rear axle shaft or rear axle housing cover locators. This will damage the wheel hub, rear axle shaft, and rear wheel hub seals.

5. Remove the rear axle shaft housing locators (3).

5.1. | Hold a brass drift against the center of the rear axle housing cover.

5.2. | Strike the brass drift with a sharp blow using the 2.3 kg (5 lb) hammer.

Important: Tag the rear axle shafts in order to identify the right and the left rear axle shaft location for reassembly.

6. Remove the rear axle shaft.
7. Remove the rear axle housing cover gaskets.

### Installation Procedure

1. Install the new rear axle shaft housing cover gasket (5).
2. Install the rear axle shaft (4).

2.1. | Dip the splined end of the rear axle shaft into the synthetic lubricant before installing. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations in Maintenance and Lubrication.

2.2. | Rotate the rear axle shaft as needed in order to align the rear axle shaft housing cover holes with the studs.

3. Install the rear axle shaft housing cover locators (3).
4. Install the rear axle shaft housing cover washers (2).

Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.

5. Install the rear axle shaft housing cover nuts (1).

Tighten

• | Tighten the rear axle shaft housing nuts 12 stud rear axle to 77 N·m (57 lb ft).

• | Tighten the rear axle shaft housing nuts 8 stud rear axle to 155 N·m (114 lb ft).

Important: There must be clearance between the rear axle shaft housing cover washers and the rear shaft housing cover. If the rear axle shaft housing cover washers contact the rear axle shaft housing cover, remove the rear axle shaft and inspect and replace the faulty parts.

6. Inspect for clearance between the rear axle shaft housing and the rear axle shaft housing cover washers.
7. Remove the wheel blocks.