Safety First:
* Disconnect the battery: This prevents accidental electrical shorts.
* Use jack stands: Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Wear safety glasses and gloves: Protect yourself from potential hazards.
* Have a helper: Many steps are easier with an extra set of hands.
Steps (general outline – consult your service manual for specifics):
1. Prepare the Truck: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake firmly.
2. Raise and Support the Truck: Securely lift the front of the truck using a floor jack and place it on jack stands. Ensure the truck is stable and secure.
3. Remove the Wheels: Remove both front wheels.
4. Disconnect the Brake Lines: Carefully disconnect the brake lines at the calipers. You'll likely need a brake line wrench and a container to catch any brake fluid. Properly plug the lines to prevent fluid loss.
5. Disconnect the ABS Sensors (if equipped): Carefully unplug the ABS sensors from their mounting points on the axle.
6. Disconnect the Tie Rod Ends: Use a tie rod separator tool to separate the tie rod ends from the steering knuckles. Mark their position before disconnecting to facilitate reassembly.
7. Disconnect the Ball Joints: This usually requires a ball joint separator tool. Again, mark their position.
8. Disconnect the Stabilizer Bar Links: Remove the nuts securing the sway bar links to the knuckles.
9. Remove the Axle Shaft Nuts: Remove the large nuts holding the axle shafts in place. These are often very tight and may require a breaker bar or impact wrench.
10. Remove the Axle Shafts: With the nuts removed, carefully tap the axle shafts out of the differential using a hammer and a suitable drift or punch. They may be stubborn.
11. Lower the Axle: Carefully lower the axle assembly. You may need to support the differential housing to prevent it from falling.
12. Disconnect the Differential: At this point, the axle assembly should be mostly free from the truck. You may need to disconnect any remaining brake components or wiring harnesses.
13. Remove the Axle Assembly Completely: Carefully remove the entire axle assembly from the truck.
Reinstallation: Follow these steps in reverse order, ensuring all components are properly aligned and torqued to specification. Again, consult your service manual. Improper torque can lead to premature wear or failure.
Important Considerations:
* Wheel bearings: This is a good opportunity to inspect and repack your wheel bearings if needed.
* Seals: Inspect the axle seals for wear or damage.
* Fluid: Check the differential fluid level and condition; replace if necessary.
This is a complex repair. If you're not comfortable performing this task, take your truck to a qualified mechanic. Improper repair can lead to serious safety hazards. Always refer to your vehicle's specific service manual for detailed instructions and torque specifications.
