Removal (Frontier, Pathfinder & Xterra)
CAUTION:
Before removing axle, disconnect ABS wheel sensor and move connector away from axle.
NOTE:
If wheel bearing is removed, it must be replaced.
- Raise and support rear of vehicle. Remove rear wheel assembly. Remove brake drum. Disconnect brakeline and parking brake cable. Remove 4 nuts securing backing plate to rear axle housing and wheel bearing cage.
- Using Axle Stand (KV40101000) and Slide Hammer (ST36230000), remove axle shaft assembly along with backing plate. Remove oil seal from rear axle case and discard. Remove ABS sensor rotor.
- Position axle shaft in Axle Stand (KV40101000) and secure in vise. Using a screwdriver, straighten lock washer tab. Using Lock Nut Wrench (ST38020000), remove bearing lock nut and lock washer and discard lock washer. Using hydraulic press and Bearing Puller (HT72480000), remove wheel bearing together with bearing cage and backing plate. Using a brass punch, remove and discard grease seal and axle bearing inside bearing cage.