For 1989 and earlier models, the removal process involves first loosening the wheel lug nuts, raising the rear of the vehicle, and supporting it securely on jack stands. After removing the wheel, proceed to remove the brake drum and brake backing plate retaining nuts. Connect a slide hammer and adapter to the axle flange and pull the axle from the housing. If necessary, replace the bearing by taking the assembly to a dealer service department or repair shop. Additionally, replace the outer axle seal if there's evidence of leaking differential lubricant by removing the seal using a slide hammer with an internal puller jaw attachment and installing the new seal. To install the new bearing, pack it with wheel bearing grease and apply grease to its outer surface. Smear the lips of the inner seal with grease and guide the axleshaft into the axle housing, taking care not to damage the seal. Install the brake backing plate nuts, slide the brake drum over the axle flange, install the wheel, lower the vehicle, and tighten the lug nuts securely.For 1990 and later models, begin by loosening the wheel lug nuts, raising the vehicle, and supporting it securely on jack stands. Remove the wheel and brake drum. Remove the cover from the differential carrier and allow the oil to drain. Remove the lock bolt from the differential pinion shaft and carefully remove the pinion shaft from the differential case. Caution should be taken not to rotate the differential with the pinion shaft removed. Push the outer (flanged) end of the axleshaft in and remove the C-lock from the inner end of the shaft, then withdraw the axleshaft. Pry the oil seal out of the end of the axle housing and use a bearing puller to extract the bearing from the axle housing. To install a new bearing, clean the bearing recess and drive it in with a bearing installer or large socket, ensuring it's tapped in to the full depth of the recess with the bearing numbers visible from the outer end of the axle housing. Apply high-temperature grease to the oil seal recess and tap the new seal evenly into place. Lubricate the seal lip and the bore in the axle bearing with clean differential lubricant. Reinstall the axleshaft in reverse of removal, tighten the lock bolt, and wheel lug nuts to specified torque values. Clean off old gasket material from the differential cover and rear axle housing, apply RTV sealant to the cover, and install it along with the bolts. Refill the axle with the correct quantity and grade of lubricant, and complete the installation following the reverse of the removal process.