Chapter 15 Constant-Velocity Axle Problems, Troubleshooting, and Service 293
Copyright by Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
Tie rod
Ball joint
separator tool
Loosen stub
shaft nut
Keep disc
from turning
Screwdriver
Socket
Flexbar
CV axle
Brake hose Brake
caliper
Brake
pads Caliper
attachment
on spindle
Tighten
down screw
Puller
Figure 15-8. Some front-wheel drive systems use a pressed-on
wheel hub and bearing assembly. A puller, such as the one
shown here, can be used to remove the spindle from the hub.
(General Motors)
Figure 15-7. Remove the brake caliper before removing the
rotor and wheel hub and bearing assembly. The caliper can be
removed by prying the pads away from the rotor and removing
the attaching bolts. The hydraulic system does not have to be
opened when removing the caliper. (Chrysler)
Figure 15-6. The spindle nut, or hub nut, can be removed with
a large breaker bar and a socket. Leave the tire on the floor or
have an assistant step on the brake to prevent the rotor from
turning. If necessary, a screwdriver can be used to hold the rotor
in place. (General Motors)
Figure 15-5. The tie rod end should be removed from the steer-
ing knuckle with a special tool. Never pound on the tie rod shaft.
Pounding may damage the threads. (Chrysler)
can be removed without opening the hydraulic sys-
tem. Pry the pads away from the rotor and remove the
caliper attaching bolts. Position the caliper so that the
brake hose is not strained. In many cases, the caliper
can be wired to the vehicle chassis.
8. After removing the caliper, pull the wheel hub and
bearing assembly from the axle stub shaft. In some
cases, the bearings are pressed in the assembly, and
the assembly must be removed with a puller. See
Figure 15-8.
9. If necessary, remove the nut or the clamp bolt holding
the ball joint stud to the steering knuckle, and separate
the ball joint stud from the knuckle. See Figure 15-9.
10. Free the steering knuckle by removing the bolts hold-
ing it to the lower portion of the MacPherson strut
assembly, Figure 15-10.
Warning: If the front spring is located
between the lower control arm and the
frame, the control arm must be supported
before removing the ball joint or strut bolts. Spring
tension can cause serious injury if the control arm is
not supported!