CV joint

AXLE SHAFTS
NOTE:
On all vehicles, raise and support vehicle with weight approved stands. Remove tire/wheel assembly.

CAUTION:Vehicle weight must not be allowed to rest on wheel bearings and hub, WITHOUT axle shaft installed and axle shaft nut tightened to
specification.

Removal
1. Raise and support vehicle. Remove front wheels and tires. Drain transaxle oil. Spread locking tab on spindle nut. Remove nut using 32 mm socket. Support lower control arm with a floor jack.

2. Remove ball joint bolt. Separate ball joint from knuckle.
Disconnect tie rod ends from steering knuckles.

3. Remove stabilizer bar bolts. Slowly lower floor jack to allow lower control arm to lower. Use a plastic hammer to tap lower control arm free from knuckle.

4. Pull front hub outward, clear of drive axle. Pry inboard CV joint out approximately.5" (12 mm) to force spring clip past groove in differential side gear splines. Remove drive axle from transaxle.

NOTE: DO NOT pull on inner CV joint. CV joint may come apart.

Installation

1. To install, reverse removal procedure and note the following: Install a new side retainer ring. Check seals at both ends of axle shaft and replace prior to installation if necessary. Lubricate transaxle seal lip with transaxle oil.

NOTE: Always install new cotter pin, washer and suspension nuts.

2. Install axle shaft into transaxle case. On models with snap ring retained axle shafts, try to pull axle shaft out of differential by hand to ensure proper engagement of snap ring.

3. Install axle shafts into wheel hub. Align suspension marks made at removal and tighten nuts. Check camber setting and adjust if necessary. Stake axle shaft nut in place with a punch or install new cotter pin after tightening.

4. Bleed brake system and replace transaxle fluid, if required.

Above are removal and installation procedures for the axle shaft after which the joint can be replaced.