Hi, Looking for some words of wisdom on rear drum brake backing plate removal. I understand I need to pull the axles. This would be the first time I have ever removed the axles. The rear end is a 12 bolt. I have been reading the Haynes Chevelle manual on the procedure(which doesn't show type of the pictured rear end) and looking for some advice. Also should I go ahead and replace the axle bearings? Anything else I should replace and check at the time of pulling the axles? Besides differential cover gasket. I am mounting rear disc backing plates.
Thank you
JD

Drain the diff by loosening the lower bolts on the cover.

If the diff is an open rear, look for a bolt that hold the shaft in the housing between the axles.

Remove this bolt. Rotate the diff so you can push/pull this shaft out enough so you can push the axle in and pull the c-clip. DO NOT PUSH the center shaft all the way out or the spider gears drop out. DO both sides. Now push the center shaft back in, and reinstall the bolt loosely.

Pull the axle shafts straight out without dragging them against the seal.

If the seals don't leak, don't replace them.

Clean the axle really good before sliding it back in. Then coat with gear oil. DO NOT let it rest on the seal as you slide it in.

Repeat the center shaft loosing step to reinstall the c-clips.

>If the seals don't leak, don't replace them.

I disagree. They're like $2 each, and it would suck to have to do them later along with the brakes becase gear oil contaminated them. It's ok if you know they are fairly new, but if there is any question just do them.

David