Genuine Toyota Axle Shaft

Toyota 4Runner Axle Shaft Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: What is the description and diagnosis of axle problems on 2003 through 2009 Toyota 4Runner?

  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 the rear axleshaft, bearing, oil seal on 2003 through 2009 Toyota 4Runner?

  A: To remove the rear axle shaft assembly, start by releasing the parking brake and raising the rear of the vehicle, securely supporting it on jack stands, and blocking the front wheels. Remove the wheels and tires, followed by the brake caliper and disc. Disconnect the ABS sensor and then disconnect the parking brake cables from the parking brake shoe and backing plate. Remove the parking brake shoes and the four backing plate mounting nuts. Pull the axle shaft out of the rear axle housing along with the backing plate. Remove the O-ring from the rear axle housing and the axle shaft inner oil seal using a seal removal tool or a screwdriver. For further disassembly of the axle shaft assembly, specialized tools and a hydraulic press are required. If the axle shaft, bearing, or outer oil seal needs replacement, it is recommended to take the axle shaft assembly to an automotive machine shop. For installation, drive a new axle shaft inner seal into the end of the axle tube using a seal installer or a socket. Ensure the lip of the seal is coated with clean oil or multi-purpose grease. Install a new axle housing O-ring. Clean the axle shaft thoroughly, removing any burrs or metal splinters, and deburr any surface irregularities to prevent damage to the seal during installation. Lightly coat the axle shaft with clean oil and insert it into the axle housing, taking care not to damage the lip of the new axle shaft seal with the splined inner end of the axle shaft. Finally, reinstall the components in the reverse order of removal, tightening the four backing plate mounting nuts to the specified torque.
• Q: How to remove a driveaxle on 2003 through 2009 Toyota 4Runner?

  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.
• Q: How to remove and install a rear axle assembly on 2003 through 2009 Toyota 4Runner?

  A: To remove the rear axle assembly 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 driveshaft. 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.