Axle Shaft: Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Nissan Maxima. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Install NEW oil seal into transaxle case.
Set Differential Side Oil Seal Protector (KV38106700 or KV38106800), or equivalent, along inner circumference of oil seal. See Fig 1 .

Fig 1: Locating Seal Protector Tool
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Insert NEW circular clip on axle shaft.
Insert axle shaft into transaxle. Ensure axle shaft splines are properly aligned and then withdraw oil seal protector tool.
Push in axle shaft, then press-fit circular clip on axle shaft into circular clip groove of side gear.
After its insertion, try to pull flange out of slide joint by hand. If it pulls out, the circular clip is not properly meshed with the side gear.
Install axle shaft into steering knuckle.
Install remaining components in reverse removal procedure. Tighten all nuts and bolts to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS . Check transaxle fluid level. Check wheel alignment.