OEM 2004 Toyota Avalon Axle Shaft

2004 Toyota Avalon Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to remove and install the axle shaft on 2004 Toyota Avalon?

  A: Start the removal and installation process of the axle shaft by supporting the hub bearing with Special Service Tool: 09608-16042 (09608-02021, 09608-02041) when applying vehicle weight to the hub bearing. When separating the drive shaft from the axle hub users need to protect the ABS speed sensor rotor serration from damage. Start by disconnecting the front wheel with 103 Nm (1,050 kgf-cm) torque then remove the front fender apron seal while draining the ATF before you can take out the drive shaft lock nut after bracket removal of the lock cap and cotter pin followed by using brake pressure to loosen the nut until you reach 294 Nm (3,000 kgf-cm). Use a plastic hammer to disconnect the tie rod end from the steering knuckle along with the lower suspension arm from the lower ball joint and the drive shaft from the axle hub but maintain safety for the boot and ABS speed sensor rotor. You should break the LH drive shaft hub nut using a hub nut wrench with a hammer handle or a similarly suitable tool but be cautious to avoid damaging both the dust cover and oil seal. The installation process requires applying gear oil to both the drive shaft inboard joint shaft and differential case sliding surface while positioning the snap ring opening downward facing before listening or feeling for pinion shaft contact and confirming 2-3mm (0.08-0.12 inch) of linear play and preventing manual drive shaft removal. The RH drive shaft requires you to use pliers to first remove its snap ring and drive shaft while applying torque of 32 Nm (330 kgf-cm, 24 ft. lbs.) to the bearing lock bolt before proceeding with caution to avoid damaging the dust cover and oil seal. The installation process reverses the order of removal steps, then check the ABS speed sensor signal while verifying front wheel alignment and conduct steering angle sensor zero point calibration if VSC is present.