Rear axle, removing and installing: Removing

• Take a measurement - a  - with a tape measure from the center of the wheel to the lower edge of the wheelhouse.
• Make a note of the measurement. This is necessary to tighten the bolts for the rear axle to the bearing bracket.
• Install Brake Pedal Actuator V.A.G 1869/2.
• Actuate the brake pedal with brake pedal loading device.

The bearing bracket should not be removed to remove the rear axle! 

• Remove bolts - 1  - with vehicle standing on its wheels. Raise vehicle until the bolts are accessible.
• Loosen wheel bolts.
• Raise vehicle to assembly height to relieve the pressure on the coil spring.
• Remove wheels.

Tighten vehicle to the lifting platform 

Before removing rear axle, the vehicle must be fixed to the support arms of lifting platform.

If the vehicle is not secured, there is a risk that it may slip off the hoist. 

• Remove the plugs from the trailing arm - 3  - and tighten the tensioning strap.

1 - Support arm of lifting platform

2 - Tensioning Strap T10038

- The vehicle must be tightened with the tensioning straps on left and right side.

Vehicles with automatic headlight range control 

• Remove coupling rod from Left Rear Level Control System Sensor G76 from rear axle → Left Rear Level Control System Sensor G76 on the rear axle for front wheel drive  .

Continued for all vehicles 

• Unclip brake cable from support on rear axle body - arrow A  - and remove from supports - arrow  -.
• Pull off clip - 1  -.
• Place engine/transmission jack V.A.G 1383 A with cloth under brake line.

• Disconnect brake lines.

• Remove securing bolts from brake caliper housing, while counter-holding on guide pins.
• Remove brake caliper and hang up on body.

• Unplug connector - 1  - from speed sensor.
• Unclip wire for wheel speed sensor from retainer.
• Place engine/transmission jack V.A.G 1383 A under.
• Support rear axle.

• Remove bearing bracket bolts - 1  - on rear axle on both sides and lower rear axle.