- A set of wrenches
- A set of sockets
- A breaker bar
- A large pry bar
- A jack and jack stands
Once you have gathered your tools, you can begin the process of removing the rear axle.
1. Park the GMC Sierra on a level surface. Engage the parking brake and set the chocks behind the tires to prevent the truck from rolling.
2. Jack up the GMC Sierra until the rear wheels are off the ground. Place jack stands under the truck frame to support it.
3. Remove the rear wheels. Loosen the lug nuts with a wrench and remove them by hand. Slide the wheels off the axle.
4. Remove the brake drums or rotors. Remove the drum by removing the lug nuts and slide the drum off of the axle.
5. Remove the differential cover. Remove the nuts and bolts holding the differential cover in place. Slide the cover off and set it aside.
6. Drain the differential fluid. Use a drain pan to catch the fluid.
7. Disconnect the driveshaft. Use a breaker bar to loosen and then remove the driveshaft from the rear axle.
8. Remove the axle shafts. Use a pry bar to pry the axle shafts out of the differential.
9. Remove the rear axle housing. Unbolt the rear axle housing from the frame and remove it.
10. Replace the rear axle housing with a new one.
11. Reassemble the rear axle in reverse order.
