Rear Axle

REMOVAL
Follow removal steps outlined in illustration.

NOTE: Removal service points as follows:





A. Drive shaft nut removal. (15)
B. Drive shaft removal. (18)





1. Push the lower part of the knuckle to the outside of the vehicle, and then separate the drive shaft from the differential carrier. At this time, use a tire lever or similar to separate the drive shaft connection.





2. Use the special tool as a cover not to let foreign objects get into the differential carrier.

INSPECTION
1. Check the drive shaft boots for damage or deterioration.
2. Check the ball joints (Birfield Joint (B.J.) and Tripod Joint (T.J.)) for excessive play or check operation.
3. Check the drive shaft spline for wear or damage.

INSTALLATION
Installation in reverse order as removal.

NOTE: Installation service points as follows:





A. Drive shaft installation. (18)

CAUTION:
- Be cautious to ensure that the differential carrier oil seal is not damaged by the drive shaft spline.
- The right drive shaft for models equipped with the Limited Slip Differential (LSD) having a Viscous Unit (VCU) has a two-part serration. Install each on the correct side carefully.

NOTE: The left and right drive shafts can also be distinguished from each other by the identification color of boot band (B.J. side).
Boot band (B.J. side) identification color:
Drive shaft (L.H.): Green
Drive shaft (R.H.): Orange





B. Drive shaft nut installation. (15)
1. Install the washer and drive shaft nut in the specified direction.
2. Use the special tool (MB990767) or equivalent to tighten the drive shaft nut.
3. If the position of the cotter pin holes does not match, tighten the nut up to 255 Nm (188 ft. lbs.) in maximum.
4. Install the cotter pin in the first matching holes and bend it securely.

CAUTION: Before securely tightening the drive shaft nuts, make sure there is no load on the wheel bearings.

NOTE: Operational steps after installation as follows:
- Bleed brake line.
- Adjust parking brake.