Axle Shaft Assembly: Service and Repair

FRONT DRIVE AXLE









^ Tools Required:
- J 2619-01 Slide Hammer
- J 28733-B Front Hub Spindle Remover
- J 29794 Extension
- J 33008 Axle Shaft Remover
- J 41820 Ball Joint/Stud Separator

Important: Prevent damage to the seals by keeping them from contacting other components.

REMOVE OR DISCONNECT
1. Raise vehicle and suitably support.
2. Wheel and tire.
3. Stabilizer shaft link.
4. Front wheel drive axle nut. Insert drift or flat bladed tool into caliper and rotor to prevent rotor from fuming.
5. Tie rod from steering knuckle.
6. Separate ball joint from steering knuckle using J 41820.
7. Axle from hub, using J 28733-B; hub nut may be partially installed to protect threads.
8. Axle from transaxle.
9. Right Side - Using J 33008, J 29794, and J 2619-01, separate the axle from the transaxle.
10. Left Side - Using the frame for leverage, separate the drive axle from the transaxle with a flat bladed tool in the groove provided on the inner joint.

CAUTION: Do not attempt to move vehicle with drive axle(s) removed from wheel bearing. Wheel(s) could fall off, dropping vehicle to the ground and causing personal injury or damage to the vehicle.

INSTALL OR CONNECT

NOTICE: Always use the correct fastener in the proper location. When you replace a fastener, use ONLY the exact part number for that application. The manufacturer will call out those fasteners that require a replacement after removal. The manufacturer will also call out the fasteners that require thread lockers or thread sealant. UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED, do not use supplemental coatings (paints, creases, or other corrosion inhibitors) on threaded fasteners or fastener joint interfaces. Generally, such coatings adversely affect the fastener torque and the joint clamping force, and may damage the fastener. When you install fasteners, use the correct tightening sequence and specifications. Following these instructions can help you avoid damage to parts and systems.

Important: Use care to avoid damage to the seals and clamps.

1. Push drive axle into transaxle. Verify that drive axle is seated by grasping the inner joint housing and pulling. Do not pull on the drive axle shaft.
2. Drive axle into hub and bearing.
3. Ball joint to the steering knuckle.
4. Tie rod end to steering knuckle.
5. Install new front wheel drive axle nut. Insert drift or flat bladed tool into caliper and rotor to prevent the rotor from fuming.
- Tighten front wheel drive axle nut 205 Nm (151 lb ft).
6. Stabilizer shaft link.
7. Wheel and tire.
8. Lower vehicle.

Inspect
- Transaxle fluid level. Fill as necessary.
- Check alignment.