Removal and Installation

Axle Assembly

Removal






1. Remove the wheel and tire assembly.






2. Remove the disc brake calipers, please refer to Brakes and Traction Control/Disc Brake System/Brake Caliper/Service and Repair/ Service and Repair

1 Remove the bolts.
2 Lift the disc brake caliper from the disc brake caliper anchor plate.
^ Using mechanics wire, position the disc brake caliper aside.






3. Remove the disc brake pads.
1 Remove the disc brake pads.
2 Remove the front disc brake caliper anchor rail clips.
4. Disconnect the power vacuum hub hose from the knuckle, then disconnect the ABS sensor.






5. Remove the front stabilizer bar-to-axle retaining bolts.






6. If equipped, disconnect the steering damper at the axle.










7. Disconnect the steering linkage at the steering knuckles, and position it aside, please refer to Steering and Suspension/Steering/Tie Rod/Tie Rod End/Service and Repair/ Service and Repair






8. CAUTION: Index-mark the driveshaft to the companion flange to maintain proper driveline balance.

Disconnect the driveshaft at the front axle, and position it aside.
^ Wrap electrical tape around the bearing cups.






9. Disconnect the vent tube and plug the fitting.






10. NOTE: It is necessary to load the suspension to remove the track bar. Load the springs by allowing most of the front vehicle weight to rest on the axle.

Support the axle with a suitable jack, and lower the vehicle enough to relieve the tension on the track bar. Then, disconnect the track bar at the axle, and position it aside.
^ Relieve the load on the suspension after disconnecting the track bar.
^ Leave the jack supporting the axle for removal from the vehicle.






11. Remove the U-bolts securing the axle to the springs.
12. Lower and remove the axle.

Installation














1. Follow the removal procedure in reverse order.
^ Check and, if necessary, fill the axle with the specified lubricant.