Drive Axle Threaded Connection, Loosening And Tightening

Special tools and workshop equipment required

Socket AF 24 mm: T10361A
Digital Torque Wrench: VAG1756A

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 12-point bolt.

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.

Loosening the 12-point Bolt:

-- With vehicle still resting on wheels, loosen 12-point bolt with : T10361A maximum 90°, otherwise, wheel bearing will be damaged.

-- Lift the vehicle just enough so that the wheels are hanging free.

-- Apply the brakes (a second technician required).

-- Remove 12-point bolt -arrow-.

Fig 1: Drive Axle Hex Bolt Evaluate The Need For A Basic Setting Of The Headlamps. Refer To Headlamp, Adjusting .

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, LLC

Twelve-Point Bolt, Installing

-- Lean the threads in the CV joint with a thread tap.

-- Replace 12-point bolt.

NOTE:

Wheels must not yet touch the ground to tighten the drive axle, wheel bearing may otherwise be damaged.

-- Apply the brakes (a second technician required).

-- Tighten 12-point bolt to 200 Nm.

-- Lower the vehicle onto its wheels.

-- 12-point bolt : WHT.005.437 / black 180° additional turn.

-- 12-point bolt : WHT.005.437.A / silver 90° additional turn.