Rebuilding your left or right front axle shaft can seem daunting, but with the right instructions and tools it can be a relatively easy process. This article will walk you through the steps necessary to rebuild your right and left front axle shaft using the proper parts and procedures.
What are axle shafts?
The axle shafts are the parts of your vehicle that connect the wheels to the drivetrain. The drivetrain is what provides power to the wheels, and the axle shafts transmit that power.
Over time, however, axle shafts can become worn or damaged, which can cause a loss of power or even a complete failure of the system. When this happens, it is necessary to rebuild the axle shafts to restore power and prevent further damage.
Tools and Materials Needed
– Torque wrench
– Jack and jack stands
– Wheel chocks
– Hammer
– Chisel
– Punch
– Press
– Bearing separator
– New axle shafts
– New bearings
– New seals
– Grease
To start
Park your vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Place wheel chocks around the wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling while you work.
Using a jack, raise the vehicle until the wheel you will be working on is off the ground. Place a jack stand under the frame near the wheel to support the vehicle.
Remove the tire and wheel assembly to gain access to your right or left front axle shaft.
Remove the front axle shafts
Using a set of axle shaft pullers, remove the left and right front axle shaft from the differential. If the axle shafts are stuck, you may need to tap them lightly with a mallet to loosen them.
Clean and inspect the parts
Once the axle shafts are removed, clean all of the parts thoroughly. Inspect the axle shafts for any damage, such as cracks or bends. Inspect the bearings and seals for any wear or damage.
If any of the parts are damaged, they will need to be replaced before you can continue.
Press out the old bearings
Using a press, remove the old bearings from the axle shafts. Be sure to press the bearings out evenly to avoid damaging the shafts.
Install the new bearings
Using a press, install the new bearings onto the axle shafts. Be sure to press the bearings in evenly to avoid damaging the shafts.
Install the new seals
Using a seal installer tool, install the new seals into the differential.
Install the axle shafts
Using a set of axle shaft installers, install the new axle shafts into the differential.
Tighten the axle shaft nut to the proper torque specification using a torque wrench.
Reinstall the tire and wheel assembly.
Lower the vehicle to the ground and remove the jack stands.
Test-drive the vehicle to ensure that the axle shafts are functioning properly. If everything is working properly, you have successfully rebuilt your front axle shafts.
