Replacing the CV axles in my 00 and have a question. I've searched and read just about every thread I could read on the axle replacement, but I'm having problems getting the axle to seat. I know the spindles need to be lined up, then give it the ole rubber mallet or try to use the axle as a slide hammer. Got that, but every time I think I have the spindles lined up and do this, the axle is not going in any further. I'm working on the drivers side axle first.

Here are three questions that would help me out.

1) How do I know when the spindles are aligned. I'm assuming I can tell by how far the axle is in.

2) I haven't hit the the axle too hard with the mallet because I was concerned about the lining up of the spindles. But, when I know they are aligned how much force are we talking to get the axle in completely. In other words do I need to give it hell, or does it usually not take that much.

Sorry, I know the topic of CV axles has been covered in numerous threads, and I've read all the threads I could find on it. Just looking for a little help.

 

Ok, let's make this easier. I believe it's in, but want to make sure so I'm posting a couple pics. I believe it doesn't look flush because of the dust boot.

 

You are good to go...it is all the way in. I did mine today.

 

Did you take the shield off the old axle and put it on the new one ? on mine i had to remove the metal ring dust shield on both sides of the old ones and putting them on the new ones, they where only on the inner, i have a 2000 max also.

 

Andy2000max, thanks for the reply. I was pretty sure I had it in, just wanted confirmation from someone who had been there done that. Anyway, thanks.

Professor, I did not take the dust shields off the old axles, they were already on the new ones. If it helps, I got my axles from Advanced Auto.

 

C V joint virgin......Am I all the way in... J/k its in

 

Was it difficult to change your CV joint?

 

perkman87, yeah I was a cv axle virgin. If I smoked I would have had a cig when I was done. But boy...I just can't wait to get to that other axle.

bigpimpen092, To be honest it was more difficult to get the cotter pins out than anything else, and that was just do to rust. I also had a little trouble lining up the spindles, but I think that was because I had a small jack that didn't give me much room to work with. After I borrowed a bigger jack and got my jack stands higher it went much easier. Really not difficult, but was time consuming because I hadn't done it before. I think the passengers side will go much easier now that I think I know what I'm doing. I also had an impact wrench...so bolts weren't a problem.

 

Passenger side not easier. What a pain in the &*%$!!! I've read some have no problems, but if you live in the midwest, or up north prepare for battle. After PB blasting twice and letting it sit for an hour, no dice. Then PB blast and let it sit all night. Finally, today I went and got a propane torch. Heated it up and finally could chisel my way in a little with a flat head. It was rusted up pretty good, but I used a wire brush and sand paper to clean that brace out. Still glad I did it considering the shop quoted me $400 with parts. Saved myself over $250.

On to the next maintenance item.

 

I did both sides on my 97, took me 2hrs and then got my alignment. I used autozone axles, i must say the rubber they use for the dustboots looks a little cheap. I looked at them after 20kmiles and they were already starting to crack.

 

The ones from Advanced auto seem decently made, but I guess we'll see after I put a few miles on it. While the quality may or may not be there, at least ya know you'll get your replacement free.

 

I am about to attempt to do this, is there an actual DIY on this? Should be straight forward, right?