98 4.6 expy 8.8rear. Does the axle just slip out or do I have to open the cover? Passenger seal is leaking, need to change it

 

You have to open cover, remove pinion shaft retaining bolt, remove pinion shaft, DO NOT TURN WHEELS at this point (the spider gears will fall out if you do), push the axle in towards the center (about half to 3/4 inch) then remove the C clip holding the axle in.... then slide out the axle.

 

Thanks!