OEM 2001 Toyota Sienna Axle Shaft

2001 Toyota Sienna Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to remove and install the axle shaft on 2001 Toyota Sienna?

  A: The first step to remove or install an axle shaft starts by supporting the hub bearing with Special Service Tool: 09608-16042 (09608-02021, 09608-02041) when the vehicle weight needs to be placed onto it. The first step involves disconnecting the front wheel before torquing its bolts to 104 Nm (1,050 kgf-cm, 77 ft. lbs.). The first step requires removing the drive shaft lock nut through removing its cotter pin and lock cap while applying brake pressure until the torque reaches 294 Nm (3,000 kgf-cm, 217 ft. lbs.). Drain ATF from the system before uninstalling the bolt and ABS speed sensor which needs to be tightened to 7.8 Nm (80 kgf.cm, 69 inch lbs.). The procedure starts by detaching the tie rod end from the steering knuckle and the lower ball joint from the lower suspension arm. The drive shaft needs to be disconnected from the axle hub by using a plastic hammer with cloth protecting the drive shaft boot. The front axle hub should be pushed outward to detach the drive shaft from the axle hub. The procedure for left-hand drive shaft assembly requires you to use a brass bar and hammer for removal while applying gear oil to inboard joint shaft and differential case sliding surfaces. After installation functionally check 2 - 3 mm (0.08 - 0.12 inch) of axial play and verify the drive shaft cannot be removed manually. To remove the right-hand drive shaft start by loosening the bearing lock bolt to 32 Nm and using pliers to uninstall the snap ring before extracting the shaft while applying gear oil during installation. The installation process reversed the steps used for removal and requires a check of ABS speed sensor signals together with front wheel alignment after completion.