Procedures

Drive Axle Hex Bolt Connection, Loosening and Tightening

Special tools, testers and auxiliary items required

• Angle wrench (V.A.G 1756)

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 hex bolt.

Vehicles without a drive axle must not be moved, otherwise the wheel bearing will be damaged. If vehicle must be moved, observe the following:

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

- Tighten outer joint to 120 Nm.

Loosening

- With vehicle still standing on its wheels, loosen hex bolt a maximum of 90°, otherwise wheel bearing will be damaged.

- Raise vehicle enough that wheels hang freely.

- Operate brake (second mechanic required).

- Remove hex bolt - arrow -.






Tightening

- Replace hex bolt.

• Wheels must not yet touch the ground to tighten the drive axle, wheel bearing may otherwise be damaged.

- Operate brake (second mechanic required).

- Tighten hex bolt to 200 Nm.

- Lower the vehicle onto its wheels.

- Turn bolt an additional 180°.