Mercury 9L8Z-3A427-B Front Axle Shaft

To remove the rear driveaxle in 2004 and earlier models, follow these steps. Block the front wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling. Loosen the wheel lug nuts and raise the rear of the vehicle on jackstands. Remove the wheel and the driveaxle/hub nut, then remove the coil spring. Remove the nut and detach the trailing arm from the lower suspension arm ball joint. Pry the trailing arm outward and remove the outer end of the driveaxle from the hub. Do not let the driveaxle hang by the inner CV joint. Pry the inner end of the driveaxle out of the differential and remove it 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.