Step 7: Install New CV Axle | Return to Steps
To prep the CV for install, I cleaned the diff side splines with brake parts cleaner, used soapy water and a plastic wire brush to clean the sealing surface, and lubed the splines. I did a bit of reading on grease vs gear oil for the inserted section of the diff, and decided to do a light coating of grease on the sealing surface, and gear oil on the splines. I also got the seal coated in a light amount of gear oil, to hopefully make installation easier.


Differential Side Installation
Making sure the caliper is set to the side, the CV can now be inserted into the differential. I did C-clip opening down, the thought behind this is the open end will hang down and more easily compress on install than a continuous section. Once the CV is in, a bit, you will feel the C-clip stop before the axle is fully inserted.


To compress the C-clip and fully insert the CV, you're going to want to use the tripod joint section as a slide hammer. It may feel a bit sketchy, but a few good slides got it to seat fully. Make sure the CV's dust shield is mated nicely against out new seal, preventing road debris from getting in there.


Knuckle Side Installation
Before getting ready to install the knuckle side CV, make sure the steering wheel has been returned to center. Here we don't have to worry about any lubrication we apply floating around in the differential. I applied a waterproof grease to the knuckle side sealing surface and splines for lubrication and corrosion protection. The knuckle can be pulled back by the caliper. and the splines inserted. You may find the axle doesn't seat up with the knuckle seal when pushing it through by hand, so tightening the axle nut can help to get everything seated.