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
• Digital Torque Wrench:V.A.G 1756 A 
  Fig 2: Identifying Digital Torque Wrench VAG 1756A

  Courtesy of AUDI

Loosen the threaded connection between the drive axle and wheel hub

Fig 3: Drive Axle Hex Bolt

Courtesy of AUDI

-- Loosen the twelve-point bolt -arrow- with the Socket - AF 24 mm: T10361A  on a vehicle resting on its wheels maximal 90°, otherwise the wheel bearing must be damaged.

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

• The help of a second technician is necessary for the following step.

-- Press the brakes (second technician).

-- Remove the twelve-point bolt -arrow-.

• 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.
• Vehicles without a drive axle must not be moved, otherwise the wheel bearing will be damaged.

If the vehicle must be moved, be sure to note the following:

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

-- Tighten the outer joint to 120 Nm.

Twelve-Point Bolt, Installing

• Replace the twelve-point bolt after removal.
• Clean the threads in the CV joint with a thread tap before installing.
• Wheels must not yet touch the ground when tightening the drive axle or the wheel bearing can be damaged.
• The help of a second technician is necessary for the following step.

-- Press the brakes (second technician).

-- Tighten the twelve-point bolt to 200 Nm.

-- Set the vehicle on its wheels.

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

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