Ford 5L8Z-3A428-DB Front Axle Shaft

To remove the front driveaxle, follow these steps. Loosen the wheel lug nuts and raise the vehicle on jackstands. Remove the wheel and the driveaxle/hub nut from the axle, then separate the lower control arm from the steering knuckle. Swing the knuckle/hub assembly out until the end of the driveaxle is free of the hub. If the driveaxle splines stick in the hub, tap on the end of the driveaxle with a plastic hammer. Support the outer end of the driveaxle with a piece of wire to avoid unnecessary strain on the inner CV joint. If removing the right driveaxle, carefully pry the inner CV joint off the intermediate shaft using a large screwdriver or prybar. If removing the left driveaxle, pry the inner CV joint out of the transaxle using a large screwdriver or prybar, being careful not to damage the differential seal. Support the CV joints and carefully remove the driveaxle from the vehicle.

To install the rear driveaxle in 2004 and earlier models, follow these steps. Pry the old spring clip from the inner end of the driveaxle and install a new one. Apply a light film of grease to the area on the inner CV joint stub shaft where the seal rides, then insert the splined end of the inner CV joint into the differential. Make sure the spring clip locks in its groove. Apply a light film of grease to the outer CV joint splines, pry the trailing arm outward, and insert the outer end of the driveaxle into the hub. Install the coil spring. Connect the trailing arm to the lower suspension arm and install the nut. Using a floor jack, raise the trailing arm to simulate normal ride height and then tighten the nut. Install a new driveaxle/hub nut and tighten it before lowering the vehicle to prevent wheel bearing damage. Install the wheel and lug nuts, then lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts.