Axle Shaft Assembly: Service and Repair

This article has been updated with bulletin 03-04-18-001

Front Wheel Drive Shaft

Removal Procedure

^ Tools Required
- J2619-01 Slide Hammer
- J28733 Front Hub Spindle Remover
- J33008 Axle Shaft Remover

1. Raise the vehicle on a hoist. Refer to Vehicle Lifting.
2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly.
3. Disconnect the tie rod from the knuckle.





4. Insert a drift (1) into the caliper and rotor to prevent the rotor from turning.
5. Remove the axle shaft nut (2).
6. Disconnect the stabilizer link.
7. Remove the ball joint from the steering knuckle.





8. Use the J28733 in order to remove the hub and the bearing.





9. Use the J2619-01 and the J33008 in order to remove the right side axle shaft.





10. Perform the following steps in order to separate the left side axle shaft (1) from the transaxle (2):
^ Place a flat-bladed screwdriver into the groove provided on the axle shaft tri-pot joint.
^ Use the flat-bladed screwdriver in order to separate the left side axle shaft (1) from the transaxle (2).

11. Remove the axle shaft (1) from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure





1. Install the axle shaft (2) to the transaxle (1).





2. Install the axle shaft to the steering knuckle (2).
3. Install the ball joint to the steering knuckle.
4. Connect the stabilizer link.





5. Insert a drift (1) into the caliper and rotor in order to prevent the rotor from turning.

Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.





6. Install the axle shaft nut (3) to the axle shaft (1).

New Style Nut:

^ Tighten the NEW style nut to 235 Nm (173 ft. lbs.).

Old Style Nut:

^ Tighten the OLD style nut to 385 Nm (284 ft. lbs.).

7. Connect the tie rod to the knuckle.
8. Install the tire and wheel assembly.
9. Lower the vehicle.