Volvo: Volvo S60 rear axle carrier, wheel alingment, volvo s60

Question
Hi Experts,

I had a handbrake failure over the weekend on my 2003 S60 2.0T. The bad news is that its taken the axle carrier with it.

The handbrake shoes sit on a stub of the axle carrier that sticks thorugh the backplate inside the drum. I think a  shoe has failed causing it to bind on the drum, then consequently put pressure on the stub which has then sheared off.

So, my question is, how tough its it to change out a rear axle carrier?

- I think the hub itself simply bolts on to the carrier.  Is this correct?  I don't need presses etc to get bearings in or out.
- I'm sure the handbrake cable will need to be replaced. How easy is this? I have to remove the back seat I think...
- Are there any other pitfalls I need to be aware of before undertaking this?

Thanks in advance of any advice.

Regards,
Pete

Answer
Peter,
I do not know why you need to replace the entire rear axle. Can you just simply renew the axle? You do have an AWD car right?
To replace the cable it is a lot of busy work in tight places. Where it attaches at the shoe look at it carefully so you see and understand what it looks like so you get it into place and operating correctly. I believe the hub yes is bolted.
If you do have a failed rear axle you will have to lower the entire rear carrier, a lot of work. I would after that job get a wheel alingment if when you drive the car it feels as if it drifts.