CV Axles Installation

This section provides the basic procedures for R & R of most C-V Axle assemblies. Use this as a general reference only.

DRIVESHAFT REMOVAL:

1. Loosen the axle nut with the vehicle on the ground. Raise the car and remove the axle nut and washer(s)
2. Remove any heat shields, exhaust, or engine mounts that may prohibit easy removal of the axle. 
3. Disconnect the ball joint from the control arm and un-bolt the strut rod (if required).
4. Grasp the outer C-V joint housing and push the wheel hub assembly away from the splined shaft. On some models, there is an interference fit between the hub and outboard C-V joint; on these you should: a) use a wheel puller, or b) screw the nut back on the outer C-V joint a few turns (this is done to protect the threads) and, using a plastic mallet, knock the joint loose by hitting the nut. NEVER STRIKE THE C-V JOINT DIRECTLY!
5. Gently pry the inboard C-V joint away from the transaxle with a suitable bar. (Note: Do not let the axle hang freely at either end. This can damage the axle or transaxle assy's.)

DRIVESHAFT INSTALLATION: 

1. While suspending the outer C-V joint housing, slide the inner C-V joint into the transaxle, taking care not to damage the oil seal or axle boot. 
2. Push the inner C-V housing into the transaxle until you can hear or feel the retaining clip snapping into its groove in the ring gear. DO NOT HIT THE INBOARD C-V JOINT WITH A HAMMER. 
3. Align the outer C-V joint spline to the wheel hub and pull the hub assembly onto the C-V joint. Use a puller, if necessary, taking care not to damage the C-V boots.
4. Inspect the ball joint for wear or damage, and replace if necessary. Reconnect the ball joint to the control arm. (Note: Many manufacturers require replacement of the ball joint nuts upon re-assembly.)
5. Install all of the old washers and finger tighten the new axle nut. Install all shielding and other parts removed to facilitate the repair. 6. Place car on ground and torque the axle nut to specifications.

See http://www.vfaq.com/mods/CVboots.html for a GREAT pictorial on changing just the CV boots on a Mitsubishi DSM.

See http://www.dsmtuners.com/installs/axles/ for a great pictorial on installing complete Raxles© axles in a Mitsubishi DSM AWD .

See http://www.raxles.com/volkswagen_mk4_axle_installation.aspx for pictorial on a Volkswagen MK4 axle installation of Raxles© High Performance Golf/Jetta axles. (Special thanks to Matt Patton!)