Noticed a torn boot on the passenger side front tire. How difficult is it to remove the axle?

Any tips or tricks?

94 GC V8 AWD

 

Remove the tire, brake caliper, bracket, rotor, axle nut, and bearing hub. Then the axle just slides out. Removing the bearing hub is the PITA part of the job. It tends to rust lock onto the spindle carrier. Clean it up and use some anti-seize when you re-install it. I've seen guys use heat to loosen the 3 bolts that mount it. Also, I think the 3 bolts require a 12-point socket or box wrench.

 

Thanks Dave,

I was hoping that it was a couple hour job. Guess I'll budget a day for it.

 

You might as well replace the unit bearing while you're there. It's really a simple job if there is no rust. You will need a 13mm 12 point socket for the three hub bearing bolts.

 

I got lazy and took it to my mechanic friend. On his lift, it took 3 hours to do both sides, installing new hub bearings as well. I brought him the parts. I swapped in new axles and didn't mess with new boots. Both were blown. One was dry and the other was spewing grease.