Front Axle

1. Raise and support vehicle.

Fig. 6 Hub & Knuckle Removal:

2. Remove hub and knuckle in numbered sequence as shown, Fig. 6, noting the following:
a. Remove front speed sensor bracket to knuckle mounting bolt, then the speed sensor. Use care when handling the pole piece at the tip of the speed sensor and toothed surface of the ABS rotor so as not to strike or damage them.
b. Loosen driveshaft nut while vehicle is on floor with brakes applied. Do not apply full vehicle load on wheel bearing when loosening.
c. Remove caliper assembly mount bolts and suspend from frame using suitable wire without disconnecting the brake hose.
d. Disconnect lower ball joint using ball joint remover tool No. MB990635-01, or equivalent. Loosen, but do not remove ball joint nut.
e. Disconnect tie rod end using ball joint remover tool. Loosen, but do not remove tie rod end locknut.
f. Remove driveshaft using axle puller tool No. MB990241-01, or equivalent.
g. On models with anti-lock brakes, use care not to damage ABS rotor installed to the outer driveshaft outer race when removing hub.
3. Measure front hub unit bearing rotation starting torque as follows:

Fig. 7 Bearing Installer Tool Installation:

a. Install front hub remover and installer tool No. MB990998-01, or equivalent, on the front hub unit bearing, Fig. 7.
b. While holding tool bolt, tighten to specification.
c. Turn hub to seat bearing in grease.

Fig. 8 Hub Torque Measurement:

d. Measure rotation starting torque and ensure it is 16 inch lbs. or less, Fig. 8.
4. Reverse procedure to install, noting the following:

Fig. 3 Washer Installation:

a. Ensure washer and wheel bearing nut are installed as shown, Fig. 9.
b. After installing wheel, lower vehicle and tighten nut to specifications.
c. If position of cotter key holes does not line up, tighten to specification.
d. Install cotter key.