Hello all,
I don't get to post often mainly because my '01 D has been a very good vehicle up to now. and i like to look through the threads for info. But My D is starting to show its age (148k). Recently while changing out the front brakes I found the outer CV boot torn and the grease leaking out. i now hear a little noise and feel a pulling to the left and I believe I need to replace the left CV axle and was wondering if this is a task I could do myself in the driveway. Do i need any specialty tools from the parts store, etc.. Or should I send it to someone a little more qualified to do the job. i am somewhat mechanicly inclined though its not my profession.
Also, I would like to say how nice the new and improved forum is. Credit to whoever did the work.
Bobby McQueen

 

Thanks for the feed back.

As for your question: The CV shafts are easy.

1. Lossen the axel bolt.
2. Raise the vehicle and remove the tire.
3. Remove the brake calipers and rotor. ( You can hang the calipars out of the way )
4. Remove the bolts in back of the hub and the large axel nut.
5. Seporate the tie rod end from the steering knuckle with a seporator. (looks like a large tuning fork)
6. Disconect the ABS sensor if equipt.
7. If you play with it you can turn the steering knuckle to the side and pop the CV joint out.
8. Pull the CV joint out. (it will kinda stick into the diff)
9. Install the CV into the diff and push (it will snap in so push hard)
10. Installation is in reverse.
11. Get a 4 wheel aglinment.

During this time is a great time to check tie rod ends, tie rods, upper and lower ball joints.

 

This was one of the first repairs I ever did on my own in my first car. It is a very easy process.

 

Whats up Mean Green?

 

Thanks for the info. The only tool I'll need to get is a pickle fork. I'l try and get this done this weekend when I get home. I'll let you know how it goes.
Bobby McQueen

 

Thanks for the help! Except for a couple of rusty bolts i got the job done pretty quick!

 

Ya, they really aren't that bad if you have some friend to help ya along the way.