Axle Shaft: Installation
- In order to prevent damage to the boot, cover the shock mounting bracket, the lower control arm ball stud and all other sharp edges with a shop towel.
- Install the axle shaft to the differential carrier. With both hands on the tripot housing, align the splines on the shaft with the differential carrier. Center the axle shaft into the differential carrier seal. Firmly push the shaft straight into the differential carrier until the snap ring seats into place.
- Raise the safety stand to support the weight of the lower control arm. Reconnect the lower ball joint to the steering knuckle. See STEERING KNUCKLE under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION in appropriate FRONT SUSPENSION article. Install the lower part of the shock absorber. See SHOCK ABSORBER under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION in appropriate FRONT SUSPENSION article. Reconnect the upper ball joint to the steering knuckle. See UPPER BALL JOINT under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION in appropriate FRONT SUSPENSION article.
- Install the axle shaft washer and nut. Install the axle shaft nut. Tighten the nut to specifications. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS . Install the ABS bracket located on the top of the upper control arm ball joint. Install the brackets from the upper control arm holding both the ABS wire and the brake hose. Install the front brake rotors. See BRAKE ROTOR under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION in appropriate DISC & DRUM BRAKES article.
- Install the front differential carrier shield. Remove the strap from the frame. Install the two front tire and wheel assembly. Tighten bolts to specifications. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS . Lower the vehicle.