OEM 2000 Toyota Avalon Axle Shaft

2000 Toyota Avalon Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to remove and install the axle shaft while ensuring the safety of the ABS speed sensor and other components on 2000 Toyota Avalon?

  A: The first step to remove the axle shaft includes supporting the hub bearing with Special Service Tool: 09608-16042 (09608-02021, 09608-02041) when needed to place weight on the vehicle. Before disconnecting the drive shaft from the axle hub maintain proper care of the ABS speed sensor rotor serration. Start by disassembling the front wheel with 103 Nm torque force followed by removal of front fender apron seal before draining the automatic transmission fluid. The drive shaft requires the removal of its lock nut after undoing the lock cap and cotter pin. To do this maneuver, apply brake pressure while using a torque wrench with a setting of 294 Nm (3,000 kgf.cm, 217 ft. lbs.). Use a plastic hammer to disconnect the tie rod end from the steering knuckle as well as the lower suspension arm from the lower ball joint until the drive shaft becomes detached from the axle hub while keeping the boot and ABS speed sensor rotor free from damage. To remove the LH drive shaft hub nut the proper tool is a hub nut wrench that should be combined with a hammer handle yet you must handle the dust cover and oil seal with care. During installation engineers must apply gear oil on the differential case sliding surface and the inboard joint shaft while making sure the snap ring opening points toward the floor and making auditory checks for shaft alignment and confirming a 2 - 3 mm (0.08 - 0.12 inch) range of movement and that the drive shaft cannot be removed manually. To replace the RH drive shaft you need to loosen the bearing lock bolt to 32 Nm (330 kgf.cm, 24 ft. lbs.) and proceed with plier use to eliminate the snap ring and drive shaft while paying attention to prevent any damage to the dust cover and oil seal. You must perform installation operations in the opposite sequence of removal operations and verify the ABS speed sensor signal and front wheel alignment after setup.