Drive Axle Threaded Connection, Loosening And Tightening

Special tools and workshop equipment required

Socket AF 24 mm: T10361A

Fig 1: Identifying Socket AF 24 mm T10361A
Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, LLC
Digital Torque Wrench: V. A. G 1756 A

Fig 2: Identifying Digital Torque Wrench VAG 1756A
Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, LLC

Do not load the wheel bearing if the wheel-side drive axle threaded connection 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:

Bolt loosening procedure

Vehicles without a drive axle must not be moved, otherwise the wheel bearing will be damaged. If vehicle does have to be moved, always note the following points:

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

-- Tighten the outer joint to 200 Nm.

Loosen the threaded connection between the drive axle/stub axle and wheel hub

Fig 3: Drive Axle Hex Bolt

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, LLC

-- With vehicle still resting on its wheels, loosen the bolt -arrow- a maximum of 90° using the 19 mm inner hex socket, otherwise the 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 the bolt.

Tighten the threaded connection between the drive axle/stub axle and wheel hub

-- Replace the bolt.

Wheels must not yet touch the ground when tightening the drive axle or the wheel bearing can be damaged.

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

-- Tighten the bolt to 200 Nm.

-- Set the vehicle on its wheels.

-- Bolt : WHT.005.437 / black 180° additional turn.

-- Bolt : WHT.005.437. A / silver 90° additional turn.