Drive Axle Removal
REMOVE OR DISCONNECT1. Unlock the steering column so that the steering linkage is free to move.
2. Raise the vehicle and support it with suitable safety stands.
3. Tires and wheel.
4. Insert a drift through the brake caliper into one of the brake rotor vanes to prevent the drive axle from turning.
5. Axle nut, and washer.
6. Remove the drift from the brake rotor
- Support the caliper with a piece of wire to prevent damage to the brake hose.
7. Caliper and rotor.
8. Brackets from upper control arm holding both the ABS wire and brake hose.
9. ABS bracket located on the top of the upper control arm ball joint.
10. Strap the frame to the hoist to prohibit movement.
11. Position a safety stand under the lower control arm.
NOTICE: Be careful that the safety stand does not damage or bend any components it may contact
12. Support the weight of the steering knuckle assembly and lower control arm with a safety stand.
13. Disengage the axle shaft from the hub by placing a block of wood against the outer end of the drive axle (to protect the threads) and sharply striking it with a hammer. Do not attempt to remove the axle at this time.
- Support the steering knuckle and assembly with a piece of wire to prevent damage to the outer tie rod and ABS wire.
14. Upper ball joint.
15. Shock absorber from the lower mount only.
16. Lower bail joint.
Important: After the lower ball joint is loose from the knuckle, simultaneously push the axle shaft in toward the differential carrier to allow room to, the knuckle and assembly to be removed.
17. Axle from the steering knuckle assembly.
Important: Lower the safety stand from the lower control arm to relieve the pressure of the torsion bar and allow for clearance.
18. Front differential carrier shield.
Important: It is essential that the axle seal is not damaged during this process.
19. Remove the shaft from the differential carrier, by placing a block of wood or a brass drift against the tripot housing, and firmly strike it outward from the case with a hammer, hard enough to overcome the snap ring pressure holding it in. Pull the axle straight out from the differential carrier.
- Support the drive axle while removing it so as not to tear the boot.
CAUTION: Do not allow the vehicle's weight to load the front wheels, or attempt to operate the vehicle, when the drive axle(s) or hub nut(s) are removed. To do so may cause the front wheel bearing inner races to separate, resulting in damage to front brake and suspension components and/or personal injury.