Removal and Replacement

Fig. 40 Transaxle Replacement (Part 1 Of 2):

Fig. 40 Transaxle Replacement (Part 2 Of 2):

1. Disconnect battery ground cable.
2. Remove battery and battery tray.
3. Remove air cleaner assembly and, if necessary, engine undercover.
4. Drain transaxle fluid.
5. Remove transaxle assembly in numbered sequence shown in Figs. 40, noting the following:
a. Support engine using suitable floor jack.
b. On models equipped with Electronic Controlled Suspension (ECS), remove ECS compressor leaving hoses attached and secure to body.
c. On models equipped with Four Wheel Steering (4WS), remove 4WS oil pump with hoses attached and secure to body.
d. Loosen, but do not remove, tie rod end assembly nut using steering linkage puller tool No. MB991113, or equivalent. Tie cord of special tool to nearby parts to prevent slippage.
e. Loosen, but do not remove, lower ball joint nut using steering linkage puller tool No. MB991113, or equivalent. Tie cord of special tool to nearby parts to prevent slippage.

Fig. 41 Driveshaft Removal:

f. Insert a pry bar between transaxle case and driveshaft and pry driveshaft from transaxle, Fig. 41.
g. Use puller tool No. MB990241-01, or equivalent, to push out right-hand driveshaft from front hub. Do not pull on driveshaft as damage to the joint will result.
h. Secure driveshaft away from the transaxle case using suitable rope to prevent damage.
i. Remove torque converter driveplate bolts prior to removal of transaxle.
j. After removing torque converter bolts, push torque converter toward transaxle so it does not remain on the engine side.
k. Support transaxle assembly using a suitable jack stand; then, after moving transaxle to the right, lower transaxle from vehicle.
6. Reverse numbered sequence shown in Figs. 40 to install transaxle, noting the following:
a. Ensure all electrical and ground connections are clean and tight.
b. Refill transaxle with fluid.
c. Ensure proper operation of selector and control cables.