Axle Shaft Assembly: Description and Operation

Rear Drive Halfshafts

CAUTION: An inspection of the outer and inner boots is necessary so that if damage or grease leakage is evident, installation of a new halfshaft can take place immediately. Continued operation with damage or grease leakage will result in CV joint wear and noise due to contamination and loss of the CV joint grease.

^ The RH and LH halfshafts are different lengths, with the RH halfshaft being the longer of the two.
^ Inboard and outboard CV joints connect to a splined shaft. A circlip stopper holds the cross groove inboard race assembly (inboard CV joint) together.
^ An axle circlip retains the splined inboard CV joint to the differential side gear. Install a new axle circlip every time you remove the halfshaft from the vehicle.
^ A rear axle wheel hub retainer secures the side shaft assembly (interconnecting shaft and outboard CV joint) to the rear hub. Install a new rear axle wheel hub retainer every time you remove the halfshaft from the vehicle.

Halfshaft Handling

CAUTION: Never pick up or hold the halfshaft only by the inboard or outboard CV joint.

Handle all halfshaft components carefully during removal and installation procedures.
^ The halfshaft assemblies are not repairable. Install a new assembly if worn damaged.
^ To separate the halfshaft from the rear hub, press the outboard CV joint from the rear hub.
^ To separate the halfshaft from the differential, apply a load to the back face of the inboard CV joint assembly to overcome the axle circlip.
^ Do not over-angle the CV joints.
^ Damage will occur to an assembled inboard CV joint if it is over-plunged outward from the joint housing.
^ Never use a hammer to remove or install the halfshafts.
^ Never use the halfshaft assembly as a lever to position other components. Always support the free end of the halfshaft.
^ Do not allow the boots to contact sharp edges or hot exhaust components.
^ Handle the halfshaft only by the interconnecting shaft to avoid pull-apart and potential damage to the CV joints.
^ Do not drop assembled halfshafts. The impact will cut the boots from the inside without evidence of external damage.

Wheel and Tire Balancing, Rear

WARNING: Do not balance the rear wheels and tires while mounted on the vehicle. Possible tire disintegration, differential or halfshaft failure can result, causing personal injury or extensive component damage. Use an off-vehicle wheel and tire balancer only.

Hoisting

CAUTION: Use a frame-contact hoist only. Vehicle or component damage can result if other types of hoists are used.

Never raise the vehicle using the halfshafts as lift points.