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: VAG1756A 
  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

-- 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.

-- 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.

-- Tighten the bolt an additional 90°.