Axle Shaft Removal

REMOVAL




1. Loosen the wheel nuts slightly.
2. Raise the front of car, and support it with safety stands in the proper locations.
3. Remove the wheel nuts and front wheels.
4. Drain the transmission oil or fluid.

NOTE: It is not necessary to drain the transmission oil or fluid when the left driveshaft is removed.

5. Raise the locking tab on the spindle nut, then remove the nut.





6. Remove the self-locking nut and flange bolt.
7. Remove the damper fork.





8. Remove the cotter pin from the lower arm ball joint castle nut, and remove the nut.
9. Install a 12 mm hex nut on the ball joint.
- Be sure that the hex nut is flush with the ball joint pin end, or the threaded section of the ball joint pin might be damaged by the special tool.
10. Use the special tool to separate the ball joint and lower arm.

NOTE: If necessary, apply penetrating type lubricant to loosen the ball joint.

CAUTION: Be careful not to damage the ball joint boot.





11. Pry the driveshaft assembly with a screwdriver, as shown, to force the set ring at the driveshaft end past the groove.





12. Pull on the inboard joint, and remove the driveshaft from the differential case or bearing support as an assembly.

CAUTION:
* Do not pull on the driveshaft, as the inboard joint may come apart.
* Use care when prying out the assembly, and pull it straight to avoid damaging the differential oil seal or the intermediate shaft outer seal.











13. Pull the knuckle outward, and remove the driveshaft outboard joint from the front wheel hub using a plastic hammer.