How to replace CV Axels? Options

[aspen]

My car clicks a bit when I turn, and the CV boots feel rather shot. I did some searching for the axels on Autozone and they appear to run about $80 each after I return my old ones. Anything bad about going for rebuilt ones?

I found a guide on here for replacing the left on, but I didn't bookmark it, and the search appears to be extra pokey. Even aside from that, how do you replace the axel on the drivers side?


Just to double check, clicking does equal the axels/joints right? I don't feel like tearing apart my car this weekend only to find I was incorrect.

Thanks!

[Jamchell]

Well to answer your first question, Celicas have sealed bearings and I would only lube them if they were dry, which they shouldn't be(use ultrahigh pressure) and only a light glaze of it. I usually try not to separate sealed bearings unless I'm going to replace them... you will prob be ok but make sure no dirt, metal shavings or anything find its way inside.

Why did you take the rotors/hubs off??? All you have to do is take off the big nut and then remove the bolts under the lower ball joint where it attaches to the lower control arm. Then the axle will slide right out if you tilt the assembly upwards.

For the passenger axle you have to remove the bearing carrier that attaches to the frame. Then the whole thing pops out of the transmission you usually replace that bearing as well with the axle.

To pry axles out of the transmission.... I usually try to pop them out by tugging on the whole axle assembly before I pry anything, but if that doesn't work I get 2 pry bars up in between the actual CV joint and the transmission. I use 2 if possible so it's less likely to damage the transmission casing.

TIP! Before you install the axles make sure they move smoothly by gently rotaing them through their range of motion by hand... if they feel crunchy then be forewarned, might be bad rebuilds which will make a racket and possibly break way too soon. I've often had this trouble with rebuilds, much less often with new ones.

Good luck!

BTW I might be doing a timing belt on my celica soon would anyone be interested in an instructional video on the subject?

This post has been edited by Jamchell: Jun 20, 2010 - 6:01 AM