Axle Shafts: Removal
- Loosen axle hub nut. Raise and support vehicle. Remove front wheel. Remove axle hub nut. Remove brake caliper, and wire aside. Remove brake rotor. Remove nut retaining tie rod end-to-steering knuckle. Separate tie rod end from steering knuckle using Remover (MB991113). Remove ABS speed sensor routing bracket from steering knuckle (if equipped).
- Remove cotter pin and nut retaining lower ball joint-to-steering knuckle. Using a hammer, strike steering knuckle boss until ball joint separates from steering knuckle. Do not damage ball joint seal. Pull steering knuckle assembly outward, and separate outer CV joint from steering knuckle. See Fig 1. Support end of axle shaft to avoid damage to CV joint and boot.
- Insert a pry bar between inner joint and transaxle case. Pry against tripod joint until joint snap ring is disengaged from transaxle side gear. Holding tripod joint and axle shaft level, pull straight outward to remove tripod joint from transaxle. When removing tripod joint from transaxle, ensure axle splines or snap ring DO NOT damage oil seal.
CAUTION:
The axle shaft acts as a bolt and secures the front hub bearing assembly. If vehicle is to be supported or moved on its wheel with axle shaft removed, install a proper size bolt and nut through hub bearing bore to prevent hub bearing from loosening.