Drive Axle Removal

DRIVE AXLE REMOVAL

TOOLS REQUIRED:
* J 28733-B Axle Remover
* J 24319-B Tie Rod Puller
* J 8059 Snap Ring Pliers
* J 35910 Boot Clamp Tool

REMOVE OR DISCONNECT
* Raise the vehicle and support it with suitable safety stands.
1. Front axle under body shield, if equipped.
2. Tires and wheels.






* Insert a drift through the brake caliper into one of the brake rotor vanes to prevent the drive axle from turning.






3. Cotter pin, retainer, nut, and washer.

IMPORTANT: It is essential that the positions of all driveline components relative to the propeller shaft and axles be observed and it accurately reference marked prior to disassembly. These components include the propeller shafts, drive axles, pinion flanges, output shafts, etc. All components must be reassembled in the exact relationship to each other as they were when removed. Specifications and torque values, as well as any measurements made prior to disassembly must be followed.






* Loosen, but do not remove, the six bolts securing the inboard CV joint flange to the output shaft companion flange.






4. Brake line support bracket from the upper control arm to allow extra knuckle travel.
5. Cotter pin and nut from outer tie rod.






A. Separate the outer tie rod ball stud from the steering knuckle using J 24319-B.

NOTICE: Do not attempt to disengage the joint by driving a wedge type tool between the joint end knuckle as the seal may be damaged.

B. Push the linkage to the opposite side of the vehicle and secure the outer tie rod up and out of the way. This will provide the needed clearance to remove the drive axle.
C. Support lower control arm.






6. Lower shock mounting nut and bolt.
A. Collapse/compress the shock absorber and secure it up and out of the way.

CAUTION: The floor lack or stand must remain under the control arm spring seat while servicing the drive axle to maintain spring and control arm position. Failure to do so could result in personal injury and/or component damage.

B. Depending on the type of hoist, it may be necessary to position the floor stand between the spring seats and lower control arm ball joint for maximum leverage. The weight of the vehicle is used to relieve the spring tension on the upper control arm.






7. Disconnect the cotter pin from the upper control arm ball joint stud.
* Loosen (do not remove at this time) the stud nut on the upper ball joint stud.
* Loosen the stud from the knuckle.

8. Nut.
A. Tip the knuckle out and toward the rear of the vehicle.






B. Suspend the knuckle from the upper control arm to prevent straining the brake line.






9. Stud from knuckle.

NOTICE: Cover the shock mounting bracket and the ball stud on the lower control arm with a shop towel to prevent possible drive axle seal damage during removal and installation.






10. Spline shaft from the knuckle using J 26733-B.
11. Inboard flange bolts loosened earlier.
12. Drive axle from the vehicle. 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.

IMPORTANT: Wipe the wheel bearing seal area on the knuckle clean. Then check seal for cuts or tears.

13. Lubricate the seal lip.
* If the seal is cut or torn, inspect the wheel bearing for damage and replace the seal.
14. Wheel bearing seal by prying the seal out of the knuckle.
* Discard the old seal.

IMPORTANT: Lubricate a new wheel bearing seal with chassis grease. Use a flat plate to press the seal down flush with the knuckle.