Axle Shaft Inner Joint & Seal: Reassembly
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Pontiac Vibe. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Temporarily install new outboard and inboard boots with new clamps on the outboard joint shaft. Install the cage to the outboard joint shaft. Using a brass bar and hammer, install the inner race on the outboard joint shaft. Install a new snap ring. Align the inboard joint shaft and outboard joint shaft.
- Insert approximately 60 percent of the grease from the service kit into the outer joint. Spread the grease onto the ball tracks, the balls, the cage and the inner race. Spread the remainder of the grease into the bottom of the outer race. Insert the remaining grease from the service kit into the boot.
- Install a new retaining ring to the axle shaft. Install the boots into the shaft grooves. Ensure that the axle shaft is at standard length. The standard length is approximately 27.098-27.492" (688.33-698.33 mm).
- Position the small boot retaining clamp onto the neck of the boot. Position the small boot and small retaining clamp to the axle shaft. Using the Drive Shaft Seal Clamp Pliers, crimp the small boot retaining clamp. Position the large boot retaining clamp onto the boot. Position the boot and large retaining clamp to the joint outer race.
- Inspect boot for proper shape. If boot is NOT shaped correctly, equalize the pressure in the boot by lifting the boot edge slightly and shape the boot properly by hand. Inspect the boot for damage. If the boot has been cut or punctured during assembly, you must discard and replace the boot.
- Using the Drive Shaft Seal Clamp Pliers, crimp the large boot retaining clamp. Inspect the outer CV joint and axle shaft for smooth operation. This will also distribute the grease within the joint. Hold the axle shaft vertically, with the outer joint at the bottom. Rotate the axle shaft 4 or 5 times in a circular motion.