Astro Van L AWD V6-262 4.3L VIN Z (1994)
Differential Axle Housing: Service and Repair
Semi-Floating Rear Axle
Construction of the axle assembly is such that service operations may be performed with the housing installed in the vehicle or with the housing removed
and installed in a holding fixture. The following procedure is necessary only when the housing requires replacement.
1. Raise vehicle and support at the frame.
2. Position a suitable jack under rear axle housing and raise slightly to support axle assembly.
3. Remove rear wheels and drums, then disconnect shock absorbers from anchor plates.
4. Scribe reference marks between driveshaft and the pinion flange for assembly reference, then disconnect driveshaft and position aside.
5. Remove brake lines from axle housing, then disconnect brake lines from backing plate.
6. If equipped with a stabilizer bar, remove it.
7. Remove U-bolts and anchor plates.
8. Remove vent hose from axle housing and move the axle clear of springs, then lower axle from vehicle.
9. Reverse procedure to install. Tighten shock absorber nuts, inner U-bolt nuts and outer U-bolt nuts to specifications.
