FRONT DRIVE SHAFT ASSEMBLY (for 4WD): Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Toyota RAV4. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

REMOVE FRONT WHEEL
DRAIN AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE FLUID
1. Drain the automatic transaxle fluid for U140F (see REMOVAL ).
2. Drain the automatic transaxle fluid for U241E (see REMOVAL ).
3. Drain the automatic transaxle fluid for U151F (see REMOVAL ).
REMOVE FRONT AXLE HUB NUT (See appropriate step(s) under INSTALLATION )
DISCONNECT FRONT SPEED SENSOR LH (See REMOVAL )
DISCONNECT FRONT SPEED SENSOR RH
HINT:

Use the same procedures described for the LH side.
DISCONNECT FRONT DISC BRAKE CYLINDER ASSEMBLY LH (See REMOVAL )
DISCONNECT FRONT DISC BRAKE CYLINDER ASSEMBLY RH
HINT:

Use the same procedures described for the LH side.
DISCONNECT FRONT STABILIZER LINK ASSEMBLY LH (See REMOVAL )
DISCONNECT FRONT STABILIZER LINK ASSEMBLY RH
DISCONNECT FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER NO. 1 ARM SUB-ASSEMBLY LH (See REMOVAL )
DISCONNECT FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER NO. 1 ARM SUB-ASSEMBLY RH
HINT:

Use the same procedures described for the LH side.
DISCONNECT STEERING KNUCKLE WITH AXLE HUB LH
1. Put matchmarks on the drive shaft and axle hub.
  NOTE: Do not punch the marks.
2. Using a plastic-faced hammer, disconnect the steering knuckle with axle hub.
  NOTE: Be careful not to damage the boot and speed sensor rotor.
  Do not excessively push out the drive shaft from the axle assembly.
DISCONNECT STEERING KNUCKLE WITH AXLE HUB RH
HINT:

Use the same procedures described for the LH side.
DISCONNECT TIE ROD END SUB-ASSEMBLY LH (See REMOVAL )
DISCONNECT TIE ROD END SUB-ASSEMBLY RH
HINT:

Use the same procedures described for the LH side.
REMOVE FRONT DRIVE SHAFT ASSEMBLY LH
1. Using SST, remove the front drive shaft.
  SST 09520-01010, 09520-24010 (09520-32040)
  NOTE:
  - Be careful not to damage the transaxle case oil seal, inboard joint boot and drive shaft dust cover.
  - Be careful not to drop the drive shaft.
    
    Fig 2: Removing Front Drive Shaft
    Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
REMOVE FRONT DRIVE SHAFT ASSEMBLY RH
1. Squeeze the ends of the snap ring, and remove the snap ring from the bearing bracket.
2. Remove the bearing bracket bolt and remove the front drive shaft from the bearing bracket.
  NOTE:
  - Do not damage the oil seal.
  - Do not damage the boot.
  - Do not allow the drive shaft to fall off.
    
    Fig 3: Removing Front Drive Shaft Assembly RH
    Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
    
    HINT:
    
    If the connection is stiff, use a brass bar and hammer to lightly tap the edge of the inboard joint RH and remove it.
FIX FRONT AXLE ASSEMBLY
NOTE: The hub bearing could be damaged if it is subjected to the vehicle weight, such as when moving the vehicle with the drive shaft removed. Therefore, if it is absolutely necessary to place the vehicle weight on the hub bearing, first support it with SST. SST 09608-16042 (09608-02021, 09608-02041)

Fig 4: Supporting Front Axle Assembly
Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002