Models Under 8600 GVW

FRONT DRIVE AXLE

Remove or Disconnect

Tools Required:
- J 36605 Front Knuckle Seal Installer

- Raise vehicle and support it with safety stands.

1. Wheel and tire assembly.




- Insert a drift or large screwdriver through the brake caliper into one of the brake rotor vanes to prevent drive axle from turning.





2. Drive axle hub nut (203) and washer (202).
3. Stabilizer link..

Important
- Turn steering knuckle to the right or left to obtain enough clearance to remove the stabilizer link.

4. Bolts from inboard joint flange.
- Support inboard end of drive axle. Move knuckle and hub assembly outward to free splined shaft from the hub.
5. Skid plate (if equipped).
6. Drive axle assembly.

Important
- Cover the shock mounting bracket and ball stud on the lower control arm with a shop towel to prevent possible drive axle damage during removal and installation.
- It may be necessary to raise the lower control arm with a jack to ease drive axle removable.
- Wipe the wheel bearing seal area on the knuckle clean.

Inspect
- Seal for cuts or tears.

Important
- Lubricate the seal lip. If seal is cut or torn, inspect the wheel bearing for damage. Replace the seal as follows:
- Pry old seal from knuckle and discard.
- Lubricate the new seal lip.
- Use J 36605 to install the seal in the knuckle.

Install or Connect

- Position drive axle spline shaft and outer CV joint into hub.
- Align bolt holes of inboard CV joint to companion flange.
- Cover the shock mounting bracket and ball stud on the lower control arm with a shop towel to prevent possible drive axle damage during removal and installation.

1. Bolts into CV joint companion flange.

Tighten
- Bolts to 80 Nm. (60 lb ft.).

2. Remove floor jack or stand from beneath lower control arm.
3. Hub washer and nut.

Tighten
- Nut to 237 Nm (175 lb ft).

4. Stabilizer link..
5. Skid plate.
6. Wheel and tire assembly.