Axle Shaft: Service and Repair

SOHC Engine

Do not apply vehicle load to wheel bearing after removal of the driveshaft. If a load must be applied to the bearing in moving the vehicle, temporarily secure bearing with stub axle replacement tool No. MB990998, or equivalent.

Fig.1 Wheel Bearing Support Tool Installation:

1. Remove center cap and drive axle nut.
2. Raise and support vehicle, then remove front wheel.
3. Disconnect tie rod end connection, stabilizer link connection and compression lateral lower arm using steering linkage puller tool No. MB991113, or equivalent.
4. When removing RH driveshaft, lightly tap center bearing bracket with a plastic hammer and disconnect driveshaft and inner shaft from transaxle.
5. When removing LH driveshaft, insert a suitable pry bar to projecting part of driveshaft, then withdraw drive axle. Cover drive axle opening in transaxle.

Fig.2 Front Drive Axle Removal:

6. Reverse procedure to install. Torque drive axle nut to 188 ft. lbs.

DOHC Engine

Do not apply vehicle load to the wheel bearing after removal of the driveshaft. If a load must be applied to the bearing in moving the vehicle, temporarily secure bearing with stub axle replacement tool No. MB990998, or equivalent.

Fig.1 Wheel Bearing Support Tool Installation:

1. Remove center cap and drive axle nut.
2. Raise and support vehicle, then remove front wheel.
3. Disconnect tie rod end connection, stabilizer link connection and compression lateral lower arm using steering linkage puller tool No. MB991113, or equivalent.
4. Insert a suitable pry bar between transaxle case and outer case of double offset joint, then withdraw drive axle. Cover drive axle opening in transaxle. Pry bar should not be inserted deeply between transaxle case and joint, as damage to oil seal may result.

Fig.2 Front Drive Axle Removal:

5. Reverse procedure to install. Position drive axle so raised inner diameter of washer is facing nut, then install and torque drive axle nut to 188 ft. lbs.