It would be more work to remove the collars then to install a new axle. I just did one on my truck in 40 minutes including jacking it up. Take the wheel off then it is literally 3 nuts and 2 small bolts. Undo the upper ball joint and tie rod as well as the small retainer bolts holding the abs and brake line, pop off the cover and remove the axle nut, then the axle just pulls out. Pop a new one in and put it back together. $240 for the axle and nut.