Joint, Drive Shaft, Outer: Removal: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2012 RAM Pickup. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Identifying Boot Clamps

Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC

Clamp shaft in a vise (with soft jaws) and support C/V joint.
CAUTION:
Do not damage C/V housing or half shaft.
Remove clamps (2) (4) with a cut-off wheel or grinder.

Fig 2: Outer C/V Joint Snap Ring
Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
Slide the boot down the shaft.
Remove lubricant to expose the C/V joint snap ring (1).
Spread snap ring (1) and slide the joint off the shaft.
Slide boot off the shaft and discard old boot.

Fig 3: Marking Inner Race/Hub, Bearing Cage & Housing
Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
Mark alignment marks (1) on the inner race/hub (2), bearing cage (3) and housing with dabs of paint.
Clamp C/V joint in a vertical position in a soft jawed vise.

Fig 4: Removing Ball From Bearing Cage
Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
Press down one side of the bearing cage (3) to gain access to the ball at the opposite side.
NOTE:
If joint is tight, use a hammer and brass drift to loosen the bearing hub. Do not contact the bearing cage with the drift.
Remove ball (4) from the bearing cage (3).
Repeat step above until all six balls are removed from the bearing cage.

Fig 5: Lifting Cage & Inner Race/Hub From Housing
Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
Lift cage and inner race (2) upward and out from the housing (1).

Fig 6: Turning Inner Race 90 Degrees In Cage
Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
Turn inner race 90° in the cage and rotate the inner race/hub out of the cage.