why warranty work?

I have a 2000 Sephia with 86K that needs a new drive axle. I called every dealership around, and over the bridge in another state to get the axle replaced. They told me it wouldnt be until next wednesday to look at the car, and God knows how long to get it in and fix it. Apparently there is a recall on some newer cars, and they are first. I said screw the dealership (since they are just as bad as the cars they are selling) and ordered one myself. How hard are they to replace? I have replaced 2 in a dodge daytona, and another in a ford escort. Is there anything I need to know before I tear this car apart? I wouldnt be so rushed on the job, but I wrecked my truck (in the shop) and theres 2 sharing one car.

wow...dealers in your area suck.

support the car
remove the wheel
remove the 2 17mm bolts and nuts that hold the lower ball joint to the knuckle.
remove the axle nut
slide the knuckle/caliper/rotor assembly off of the axle shaft and turn back towards the car-out of the way.
wrap a rag around the axle to help grip and tug
if it is the driver side you may need to get a pry bar and use a little leverage at the tranny case as there is a c-clip on that side that takes a little extra to get out.

tearing it down was easy...but getting the new axle to seat into the transfer case (i know its not 4wd...its early)was the challenge. After several attempts i actually had to take it to a transmission place to get it fixed and it took them over 3 hours to get the clip to lock the axle in place. glad it wasnt just me.