Q: What is the description and diagnosis of axle problems in Toyota 4Runners?
A: The rear axle assembly of a vehicle is a hypoid, semi-floating type with a Differential that allows the outer rear tire to turn more quickly than the inner tire when going around a corner. The axle shafts are splined to the differential side gears, and the differential pinion gears roll around the slower side gear, driving the outer side gear more quickly. Some models use a locking limited-slip rear axle that allows for normal operation until one wheel loses traction. On 4WD models, a fully independent front axle assembly is used, consisting of a differential and a pair of drive axles with inner and outer constant velocity (CV) joints. When diagnosing axle problems, it's important to check other possible causes before assuming the axle is the problem. Common noises associated with axle diagnosis procedures include road noise, tire noise, and engine and transmission noise, which can be deceiving and travel along the driveline. Overhauling the differential requires special tools and isn't cost-effective for a do-it-yourselfer.
Q: How to remove and install a rear axle assembly on a Toyota 4Runner?
A: To remove the rear Axle Shaft from a vehicle, first, loosen the rear wheel lug nuts and raise the rear of the vehicle, supporting it securely on jack stands placed under the frame. Then, position a floor jack under the rear axle differential housing and remove the Drive Shaft. Disconnect the left and right speed sensors, detach all brake hoses or lines from the axle housing, and disconnect the parking brake cables from the brake assemblies. Remove the rear calipers, discs, and emergency brake assemblies, detach the vent hose from the axle housing, and disconnect the shock absorbers from the axle brackets. Finally, disconnect the suspension arms, the lateral control rod, and the stabilizer bar, and remove the coil springs before lowering the jack under the differential and removing the rear axle assembly from under the vehicle. To install the rear axle assembly, simply reverse the above steps, being sure to tighten all suspension fasteners to the torque specifications and bleed the brakes.
Q: How to remove the rear axleshaft assembly, bearing, oil seal?
A: First, you can remove the rear axleshaft assembly by releasing the parking brake and raising the rear of the vehicle, supporting it on jack stands. Remove the wheels, brake caliper and disc, ABS sensor, and parking brake cables. Take out the parking brake shoes and backing plate mounting nuts. Pull the axleshaft out of the rear axle housing along with the backing plate. Remove the Wheel Bearing, O-ring and Wheel Seal. Specialized tools and a hydraulic press are needed for further disassembly. For replacement of the axleshaft, bearing, or outer oil seal, take it to an automotive machine shop. To install, drive a new axleshaft inner seal into the axle tube and coat the lip with clean oil or grease. Install a new axle housing O-ring. Clean the axleshaft, removing any burrs or splinters, and deburr any surface irregularities. Lightly coat the axle shaft with oil and insert it into the axle housing, being careful not to damage the new axleshaft seal. Finally, reinstall the components in reverse order, tightening the four backing plate mounting nuts to the specified torque.
A: To remove an axle shaft, first, loosen the front wheel lug nuts, raise the vehicle, and support it on jack stands. Remove the wheels and drain the Differential. Then, remove the grease cap, cotter pin, and nut lock. Use a pry bar or screwdriver to hold the axle shaft and break the hub nut loose with a breaker bar or brakes. Remove the nut, speed sensors, and outer tie rod ends. Disconnect the ball joint assembly and separate the lower control arm from the steering knuckle. Knock the axle shaft loose from the steering knuckle with a brass drift and hammer. Swing the steering knuckle outward and detach the axle shaft from the differential. To install, reverse the removal steps and tighten all fasteners to the torque specifications.