Axle Shaft: Service and Repair

NOTE: Do not begin this removal procedure unless the following new parts are known to be available: hub retainer nut, lower control arm to steering knuckle attaching nut, inboard CV joint stub shaft circlip and link shaft snap ring. Once removed these components must not be reused, as their torque holding ability or retention capability is greatly diminished during removal.

1. Raise and support vehicle, then remove front wheels.
2. Remove and discard front axle retainer nut and washer.
3. Remove nut from stabilizer bar link at shock absorber end, then remove link from shock and position aside.
4. Remove nut from lower ball joint, then using a suitable pitman arm type puller, loosen ball joint in lower control arm.
5. Place a suitable pry bar through opening in lower control arm and under frame, then pry down on control arm to release lower ball joint.

Fig. 1 Front Hub Separation From Outer CV Joint:

6. Remove outer CV joint from hub using tools shown, or their equivalents, noting the following:
a. Do not use a hammer to drive joint from hub.
b. Do not allow driveshaft to hang from inner joint.

Fig. 2 Inboard CV Joint Removal Tools:

7. Remove inner joint from transaxle using tools shown, or their equivalents.
8. Reverse procedure to install, noting the following:
a. New front axle retainer nut must be used.
b. New driveshaft bearing retainer circlip must be used.
c. New ball joint nut must be used.
d. Use care not to damage seal when installing driveshaft joints into transaxle.
e. Ensure proper engagement of lefthand driveshaft inner joint spline into transaxle side gears and that bearing retainer circlip is properly seated.
f. Ensure proper engagement of transaxle shaft spline into righthand inner CV joint and that bearing retainer circlip is properly seated.
9. Check transaxle fluid, add if necessary.