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This guide shows you how to replace the front CV axle drive shaft on a 2004 Toyota 4Runner 4WD, but will apply to all 4WD and 2WD 3rd Gen 4runners.
Replacement often is required due to a ripped boot and grease leakage, and you'll feel a rough ride. Replacing the entire axle is more cost-effective than just replacing the rubber boots, and is significantly easier.
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Remove the dust cap from the wheel hub to access the large nut.
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Remove the cotter pin from the large nut.
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Use a 35mm six-point socket to remove the large nut
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If your compressor is not working, you can lower the wheel to the ground and use a breaker bar to loosen the nut.
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Remove the wheel and check that the CV axle is free and can be moved towards the inside.
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Remove the steering outer tie rod by removing the cotter pin and 19mm nut
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Use a puller to release the ball joint without damaging the boot.
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Remove the two 19mm bolts holding the wheel assembly to the lower control arm.
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Gently move the entire assembly to gain access to the CV shaft.
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Use a heavy hammer to separate the CV shaft from the wheel hub.
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Carefully separate the CV shaft from the front differential using a pry bar, making sure not to damage any seals.
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Clean the surrounding area before installing the new CV shaft.
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Gently install the new CV shaft into the front differential, making sure not to damage any seals.
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Apply a small amount of anti-seize to the CV shaft before inserting it into the wheel hub.
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Use the large nut and 35mm socket to pull the CV shaft all the way into the wheel hub.
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Check for any leaks or pinched rubber and make sure everything moves freely.
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Apply blue thread lock to the two large bolts holding the wheel assembly to the lower control arm and tighten them.
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Reinstall the outer tie rod and use a new cotter pin.
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Reinstall the wheel and tighten the large nut using a breaker bar
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Make sure to use the correct position for the locking pin and secure it with a new cotter pin.
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Tap the dust cap back into place using a rubber mallet and a small amount of anti-seize. Now that the new CV shaft is installed, you can reinstall any remaining parts and go for a test drive to ensure everything is working correctly.
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Now that the new CV shaft is installed, you can reinstall any remaining parts and go for a test drive to ensure everything is working correctly.
Additional Information
- The new CV shafts may come with gold nuts that are too shallow for use with a cotter pin. In this case, reuse the original nut.
Now that the new CV shaft is installed, you can reinstall any remaining parts and go for a test drive to ensure everything is working correctly.
Additional Information
- The new CV shafts may come with gold nuts that are too shallow for use with a cotter pin. In this case, reuse the original nut.
