Axle Shaft Assembly: Description and Operation

Drive Axle

The wheel bearing must not be under a load while the drive axle threaded connection on the wheel side is loose.

If the bearings are loaded by the vehicle's own weight the wheel bearing will be damaged. This reduces the service life of the wheel bearings. Therefore observe the following:

• Procedure for loosening drive axle to wheel hub threaded connection. Refer to => [ Threaded Connection Between Drive Axle and Wheel Hub, Loosening and Tightening ] Description and Operation.

Vehicles without a drive axle must not be moved, otherwise the wheel bearing will be damaged. If vehicle does have to be moved, always note the following points:

- Install an outer joint in place of the drive axle.

- Tighten outer joint to 200 Nm.

Do not let the drive axle hang down. The inner joint could be damaged if it is bent too far.