Removing and Installing Left Drive Shaft

Tools

Removing left drive shaft

1. Raise vehicle and remove wheel.

2. Undo fastening nut at the outside of the drive shaft.

3. Slide a suitable protector (e.g. plastic tube, old coolant hose - dia. approx. 30 mm) over the drive shaft.
Undo the drive shaft on the transmission flange.







4. Remove the rear underbody cover (5).







5. Compress the wheel carrier (50...60 mm).


NOTE:
Lift the wheel carrier using a universal lift placed at a suitable point.
Place a hard rubber pad between the universal lift and wheel suspension so that it cannot slip.
Ensure proper seating and carefully lift the wheel suspension.






(Figure shows the right-hand side)

6. Press drive shaft out of the wheel-hub toothing.


NOTE:
Since the drive shaft can be moved only using great force, loosen the shaft inwards with taps on a copper mandrel. Lift up the shaft near the inner joint (possible damage to the closure cap of the drive shaft may occur).
For unfavourable tolerances, the drive shaft must be pressed out of the wheel-hub toothing using a universal wheel-hub extractor (Fig. 42210004).
Always check the boots for damage if continuing to use the drive shaft!
Replace the boots it necessary.







7. Remove drive shaft. To do this, pull out the drive shaft over the transverse strut to the front and downward (arrows).

Installing left drive shaft

- Install in reverse order.
Grease the toothing of the drive shaft with Optimoly HT.

- Carry out a visual inspection of all parts.
Replace self-locking nuts.
Use correct tightening torques.


NOTE:
Only optimised axle nuts for driveshaft fastening are available from the Parts Service.
Pictures and text can be found under the installation instructions for the right drive shaft.