OEM 2002 Toyota Corolla Axle Shaft

2002 Toyota Corolla Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to remove and install the axle shaft on 2002 Toyota Corolla?

  A: The axle shaft removal process starts by supporting the hub bearing with Special Service Tool: 09600-16042 (09608-02021, 09600-02041) when the vehicle weight needs to be supported on it. The installation of the ABS speed sensor rotor serration demands special attention while disconnecting the drive shaft from the axle hub. The front wheel and engine under covers should be removed first before draining either the gear oil in M/T models or the ATF in A/T models. Extract the drive shaft lock nut by removing the lock cap along with the cotter pin before taking out the locking nut while applying brake pressure. The steering knuckle tie rod will be detached using Special Service Tool 09628-62011 while the lower ball joint attaches to the lower suspension arm by removing its bolt and two nuts. Strictly work with a plastic hammer to uninstall the drive shaft from the axle hub yet prevent damage to both the boot and ABS speed sensor rotor. Dismantle the LH drive shaft from the transaxle using a hammer together with a hub nut wrench yet retain caution about dust cover and oil seal breakdown. When removing the RH drive shaft rely on a hub nut wrench to prevent any damage to the dust cover along with the oil seal. A screwdriver enables the removal of the snap ring from the inboard joint shaft. The procedure begins with proper installation of a new snap ring to the inboard joint shaft followed by application of gear oil on the inboard joint shaft and differential case sliding surface. Finish the installation by setting the snap ring with its opening side facing downward. Install the drive shaft through hammer and brass bar application while safeguarding the dust cover and oil seal from damage. The installation should yield 2 - 3 mm (0.08 - 0.12 inch) of axial window and hand-resistant drive shaft operation. Attach the drive shaft to the axle hub while being cautious about boot and ABS speed sensor rotor damage before installing the lower suspension arm to lower ball joint with 142 Nm (1,450 kgf-cm, 105 ft. lbs.) torque (p. 196). After connecting the tie rod end to the steering knuckle you should install the tightened nut and new cotter pin while tightening the nut additionally to 60 degrees if the holes are not properly aligned. The correct torque value for this connection reaches 49 Nm (500 kgf-cm, 36 ft. lbs.). Follow the brake application by installing the drive shaft lock nut to achieve 225 Nm of torque (2,300 kgf-cm and 166 ft. lbs.). Then apply the lock cap and new cotter pin while continuing to increase torque up to 60 degrees if possible. Following oil management of M/T or A/T the technician will install engine under covers along with front wheels at 103 Nm (1,050 kgf-cm, 76 ft. lbs.) torque. Perform inspections on the front wheel alignment together with the ABS speed sensor signal before finishing.