Your cart is empty.
Your cart is empty.Product Description
WHAT IS a CV Axle?
CV (constant-velocity) axles, (also known as half-shafts), are used in front-wheel drive vehicles to transfer the engine’s power from the transaxle to the two drive wheels. Some late model vehicles with independent rear suspension and some four-wheel and all-wheel drive vehicles also use CV axles.
A CV axle has two CV joints (an inner joint and an outer joint). These joints allow the axle to transfer the engine's power to the drive wheels at a constant speed while accommodating for the different travel conditions, including the up and down motion of the suspension and cornering. Without constant-velocity joints, the axles would bind or break whenever the vehicle hit a bump in the road or turned a corner.
How-to steps for replacing two CV joint axles
STEP 1
This is a rear drive vehicle with two CV joint axles. Start by disconnecting the battery, jacking up the vehicle and allowing some penetrating oil to soak into any retaining bolts.
STEP 2
In this case, suspension disassembly was not required. Moving brake lines and other obstacles out of the way of wrenches is a good bet before beginning.
STEP 3
Loosening but not removing the strut top mounts and sway bar end link bushings can provide a bit more suspension travel for easier axle removal.
STEP 4
Loosen and remove the wheel side axle mounting bolts.
STEP 5
Separate the axle from the wheel. Do not allow the axle to hang from the transmission or differential. Oil seals could be damaged.
STEP 6
Gently pull, pry or otherwise liberate the axle from the transmission or differential. Do not bend axle seals. Be careful not to tear the transmission or differential oil seals.
STEP 7
Don't forget to transfer any axle seals, ABS rings or other parts to the replacement axles.
STEP 8
Guide the replacement CV joint axle into place. Depending on the type of retainer, the axle should click firmly in place.
STEP 9
Always use the proper torque on the axle bolts. Check axle rotation. Reassemble dismantled components.