Toyota 42301-20050 Rear Axle Shaf

Two axle shafts that deliver power are used where the inner end of each of the axle shafts is mated to the transaxle either by a side gear shaft or connected directly to the differential side gears. Prevailing side gear shafts can be withdrawn to change the oil seal and the outer ends of the axle shafts have splined structure on the axle hubs and are held by a big hexa nut. The inner ends have sliding constant velocity joints with angular as well as axial movement and either a tripod bearing and a joint tulip or a ball and cage type of joint which is able to slide in and out as moves the axle shaft with the wheel. These joints can be unbolted and cleaned in case of a boot failure but damaged parts have to be replaced as subassemblies. Every peripheral element includes balls between the interior race and outer carrier, which can rotate in the angular plane but cannot move axially. One has to inspect the boots for damages and leakage of the lubricant often as CV joint boots that are torn must be replaced because they damage the joints. Historically boot replacement has necessitated the removal of the axle shaft; however, some stores sell "split" type of replacement boots. However, it is recommended to pull the axle shaft and delayer the CV joint to clean it because contaminants lead to wear. Signs of worn or damaged CV joints are lubricant leakage, squeaking sound when the car turns, the thumping sound when the car is accelerating after idle, and feeling vibrations when the car is on the highway. To check the wear, take hold of each axle at a time and turn it in a circle as you grasp the CV joint housings with your other hand this should reveal if the splines are worn or if the joints are loose and also inspect the axle shaft shafts for cracks and dents and whether they are twisted.