Ford 6L8Z-3A427-B 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 front driveaxle, follow these steps. Pry the old spring clip from the inner end of the driveaxle (left side) or outer end of the intermediate shaft (right side) and install a new one. Lubricate the differential or intermediate shaft seal with multipurpose grease and raise the driveaxle into position while supporting the CV joints. Push the splined end of the inner CV joint into the differential side gear (left side) or onto the intermediate shaft (right side) and make sure the spring clip locks in its groove. Apply a light coat of multipurpose grease to the outer CV joint splines, pull out on the steering knuckle assembly, and install the stub axle into the hub. Insert the ball joint stud into the steering knuckle and tighten the pinch bolt. Install a new driveaxle/hub nut and tighten it before lowering the vehicle to prevent wheel bearing damage. Grasp the inner CV joint housing (not the driveaxle) and pull out to ensure the driveaxle has seated securely in the transaxle or on the intermediate shaft. Install the wheel and lug nuts, then lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts.