Description & Operation: Notes
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
CAUTION:
Never pick up or hold the axle shaft only by the inboard or outboard Constant Velocity (CV) joint. Do not over-angle the CV joints. Damage will occur to an assembled inboard CV joint if it is over-plunged outward from the joint housing. Never use a hammer to remove or install the axle shafts. Never use the axle shaft assembly as a lever to position other components. Always support the free end of the axle shaft. Do not allow the boots to contact sharp edges or hot exhaust components. Handle the axle shaft only by the interconnecting shaft to avoid pulling apart and damaging the CV joints. If assembled axle shafts are dropped, the impact will cut the boots from the inside without evidence of external damage.