How To Replace Axles

Most of today's cars are front wheel drive. In spite of continually advancing technology, the front drive axles will still wear out and need to be replaced. Here are some basic instructions on how to replace the front drive axles.

First, before raising the car with a jack and supporting it with jack stands, remove the hubcaps and loosen the axle retaining nut in the center of the wheel. Loosening the nut before raising the car is easier because the weight of the car holds the wheel in place for you because the nut is usually torque to over 150 ft. lbs. Then raise the car and remove the wheel. Removing the brake caliper is not necessary but may be removed if desired for ease of access. Next, remove the bolts connecting the strut to the steering knuckle. The drive axle has spines on the end that protrude through the wheel assembly. The axle should now push through the wheel assembly.

Once the outer end is loose, it is time to remove the axle from the transaxle housing. That end of the axle is also spined and has a decent cut around the shaft that holds a spring clip. The clip holds the axle in place in the transaxle. The clip is round and can be forced out of its nest. By far the easiest way to remove the axle is with a slide hammer attached to a large fork that fits over the end of the tripod housing. Another less conventional method is to use a pry bar between the tripod housing and the transaxle. This method must be used with care due to the high possibility of damaging the transaxle housing.

When reinstalling the axle, take extra care with the re-insertion of the axle into the transaxle. Pay special attention to the oil seal because it is possible that it can get torn, wrinkled, or damaged. After reassembly, front end alignment is recommended. Be sure to check and refill the transmission with fluid and torque the axle retaining nuts to the specified torque amount.

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