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This is a job I've done many times (not on the same car-heh,heh) and is very straight forward. The removal and reinstallation of the axle shafts can be handled by anyone with basic tools and a little mechanical know-how. The trickier part is pressing the bearing and lock ring. A good press and a variety of plates and collars is essential--most machine shops can do this for a small fee. I do it myself, but then I have access to the proper equipment. For the part anyone can do--leave the rear caliper brake lines attached (hang the calipers with wire after loosening the clamp on the axle tube). Remove the rotor(s)--remove the parking brake shoes and spring--take a picture or make a drawing if you haven't had these apart before. Remove the four bearing retainer bolts. Flip the rotors backward and slip them over the lugs--use at least three lug nuts--screw them on to maybe half the depth of the lug--leaving the rotor room to slide in and out. Push the rotor towards the center and give it a good pull (snap)away from the car. One or two pulls should get the axle free of the housing. Don't bang the axle around. At this point you could install used shafts (providing there's no sign of leakage from the outer seal and ther bearings feel good). You could/should change the inner seal since it's easily accessible now with the axle removed. The seals can be purchased separately--but the kits are reasonable--inner and outer seals, bearing and bearing retainer--for about $55 per side. The bearings are prepacked with grease and sealed on both sides--the outer seal keeps dust and water out while the inner seal keeps the gear oil away from the bearings. Now put everything back together. --- Dave
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