Drive Axles, Bearings and Joints: Service and Repair

Drive shaft, strut and wishbone assembly






1. Seal
always replace
remove protective foil and install into joint

2. 60 Nm (59 ft lb)

3. Axle shaft
left ann right parts are identical
not intended for repair

4. Suspension strut

5. Self-locking nut 25 Nm (16 ft lb)
always replace

6. Crossmember

7. Ribbed nut 45 Nm (33 ft lb)
always replace

8. Wishbone arm pivot pin
different versions for left and right
note angle position on joint

9. Hexagon nut 70 Nm (52 ft lb)

10. Transverse link
note angle position on joint
left and right sides different

11 Hexagon bolt

12. Ball joint
left and right identical

13. Self-locking nut 200 Nm (148 ft lb)
always replace

14. Hexagon bolt/washer
always replace
tighten to 200 Nm (148 ft lb) and then turn additional 90° (1/4 turn)
only loosen or tighten when vehicle is standing on wheels

15. Self-lockIng nut 90 Nm (66 ft lb)
always replace

16. Wheel bearing housing

17. Wheel speed sensor
insert into wheel bearing housing as far as possible
pull out a little before removing axle shaft

WARNING: Do not remove or install axle bolt washer with vehicle on a hoist. Lower vehicle to the ground before removing installing.

CAUTION: Do not move vehicle without axle shaft or outer constant velocity joint installed or wheel bearing will be damaged. When disassembling suspension strut, install tool 2070/1 before removing (or use VW 340). Do not heat up wheel bearing housing or wheel bearing will be damaged.

CAUTION: Crossmembers and supports are secured to the body with ribbed nuts. When repairing, new ribbed nuts should always be used to secure these parts. When securing crossmember. ensure that the four holes in crossmember are aligned with the mounting studs as accurately as possible. Afterwards align rear axle.

CAUTION: Do not weld or straighten load-carrying and wheel locating components of rear wheel suspension. Replace all self-locking nuts and bolts.