Expert: Carl Brandt - 11/14/2011

Question
Hi,

I want to replace the CV joint on the passenger side but I can't get the CV joint out.  What do I have to remove from the hub side to pull the cv joint from the wheel.  There is so much stuff in the way I can't pull it all the way out.  So I know I have to remove ball joint or steering linkage or something.

Answer
Alan,

My first suggestion, is to purchase a repair manual.  Most auto parts stores have them in stock, and they have step by step instructions, along with pictures of the process it takes to replace the CV joint.
This would be very hard to explain via text without some way to show the individual parts.  The manual, will also let you know if there are any special tools needed to pull the joint out, or replace it.

Here are some instructions, but I can't send the pictures with this answer.

Front Axle Shafts

Removal
  1. Remove bolts fixing drive shaft to final drive.
  2. Remove free-running hub assembly with brake pedal depressed. Remove brake caliper assembly without disconnecting brake hydraulic line. Make sure that brake hose is not twisted.

Remove tie-rod ball joint.
  3. Remove nuts fixing lower ball joint on lower link. Support lower link with Jack.
  4. Remove upper ball joint fixing bolt.
  5. Remove shock absorber lower bolt.
  6. Remove drive shaft with knuckle. Cover drive shaft boot with a suitable protector.
  7. Separate drive shaft from knuckle by slightly tapping it.

Installation
Installation is the reverse of removal, noting the following:
Apply multi-purpose grease as shown

Install bearing spacer onto drive shaft.

Note: Make sure that bearing spacer Is facing in proper direction.

When installing drive shaft, adjust drive shaft axial end play by selecting a suitable snap ring.

  1. Temporarily install new snap ring on drive shaft in the same thickness as it was installed before removal.
  2. Set dial gauge on drive shaft end.
  3. Measure axial end play of drive shaft.
Axial end play: 0.1 - 0.3 mm (0.004 - 0.012 in)
  4. If axial end play is not within the specified limit, select another snap ring.

Available snap rings:
1.1 mm (0.043 In) 1.3 mm (0.051 In)
1.5 mm (0.059 in) 1.1 mm (0.061 in)
1.9 mm (0.075 in) 2.1 mm (0.083 In)
2.3 mm (0.091 In)

Hope this helps

Carl