Drive Axle General Information

The wheel bearing must not be under a load while the drive axle threaded connection on the wheel side is loose.

If the wheel bearings are under the load of the vehicle weight, the wheel bearing will be damaged. This reduces the service life of the wheel bearings. Therefore, observe the following:

• Procedure for loosening drive axle to wheel hub threaded connection. Refer to DRIVE AXLE THREADED CONNECTION, LOOSENING AND TIGHTENING .

Vehicles without a drive axle must not be moved, otherwise the wheel bearing will be damaged. If vehicle must be moved, observe the following:

-- Install an outer joint in place of the drive axle.

-- Tighten the outer joint to 200 Nm.

Do not let the drive axle hang down. The inner joint could be damaged if it is bent too far.