Audi A4: Drive Axle, Removing and Installing

Special tools and workshop equipment required

• Torque Wrench 1332 40-200Nm -VAG1332-

  Caution

This procedure contains mandatory replaceable parts. Refer to component overview and parts catalog prior to starting procedure.

Mandatory Replacement Parts

• Bolts - Joint to Transmission
• Circlip - Triple Roller Star to Drive Axle
• Bolt - Outer CV Joint to Drive Axle
• Clamp - CV Boot to Outer CV Joint
• Clamp - CV Boot to Drive Axle
• Clamp - CV Boot to Joint

Removing

- Loosen the connection between the drive axle and wheel hub. Refer to → Chapter "Drive Axle Threaded Connection, Loosening and Tightening".

- Remove the front wheel. Refer to → Chapter "Wheels and Tires".

- Left drive axle: Remove the subframe shield. Refer to → Chapter "Subframe Shield, Removing and Installing".

- Right drive axle: Remove the subframe shield and move it to the side. Refer to → Chapter "Subframe Shield, Removing and Installing".

- Remove the nuts -1, 3- and remove the drive axle cover -2-.

- Remove the bolts -arrows- that connect the drive axle and flange shaft.

- Remove the drive axle, and do not damage the CV boot and the drive axle coating while doing so.

Installing

Install in reverse order of removal and note the following:

- Tighten the threaded connection between the drive axle and wheel hub. Refer to → Chapter "Drive Axle Threaded Connection, Loosening and Tightening".

Tightening Specifications

• Refer to → Chapter "Overview - Drive Axle"
• Refer to → Chapter "Overview - Subframe"
• Refer to → Body Exterior; Rep. Gr.66; Wheel Housing Liner; Overview - Front Wheel Housing Liner.
• Refer to → Chapter "Wheels and Tires"

Drive Axle Heat Shield, Removing and Installing

Left Drive Axle Heat Shield

Right Drive Axle Heat Shield

Drive Axle Threaded Connection, Loosening and Tightening

Special tools and workshop equipment required

• Torque Wrench 80-400Nm -VAG1576-
• Socket AF 24 mm -T10361A-

Loosen the threaded connection between the drive axle and wheel hub

- With vehicle still resting on its wheels, loosen the bolt -arrow- a maximum of 90º using -T10361A-, otherwise the wheel bearing will be damaged.

- Lift the vehicle just enough so that the wheels are hanging free.

- Apply the brakes (a second technician required).

- Remove the bolt.

Tighten the threaded connection between the drive axle and wheel hub

  Note

• Replace bolt after removal.
• Before installing, clean the threads in the CV joint/stub axle with a thread tap.
• Wheels must not yet touch the ground when tightening the drive axle/stub shaft or the wheel bearing can be damaged.

- Apply the brakes (a second technician required).

- Tighten the bolt to 200 Nm.

- Set the vehicle on its wheels.

- Tighten the bolt an additional 180º.

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