08 Explorer 4x4 CV half shaft replacement

[relentless85]

I need some pointers/tips/instructions on how to replace the CV half shaft on the driver side on my 2008 Explorer 4x4.

The reason I have to replace it is because of the axle nut threads. They are so rusted that when I replace the hub and lower ball joint, I’m not going to be able to thread the nut off since the threads are so rusted and gone.

How does the half shaft come out and go back in? I have read/heard that there is some sort of snap ring that is in there? I guess I would just need to carefully pry/tap out the old half shaft? Then the new half shaft would slide and snap back in?

I have never done a half shaft before. Any special tools I need?

Thanks

 

[Rcflyer330]

I have never done one but its the same process as any other vehicle. you will need a pry bar and use it to pry aganst the cv shaft and the axle tube or differential being carefull not to damage the seal.

It may more helpfull to watch a YouTube video on how to remove and install a cv shaft than me trying to explain it.

 

[imp]

I need some pointers/tips/instructions on how to replace the CV half shaft on the driver side on my 2008 Explorer 4x4.

The reason I have to replace it is because of the axle nut threads. They are so rusted that when I replace the hub and lower ball joint, I’m not going to be able to thread the nut off since the threads are so rusted and gone.

How does the half shaft come out and go back in? I have read/heard that there is some sort of snap ring that is in there? I guess I would just need to carefully pry/tap out the old half shaft? Then the new half shaft would slide and snap back in?

I have never done a half shaft before. Any special tools I need?

Thanks

@relentless85
There is a "Circlip" inside the differential which grips a groove in the splined inner end of the axle shaft. It's resistance must be overcome by carefully prying between the center section and the inner CV joint. Of course, the outer end of the axle assembly must be free of the suspension knuckle. Always use a NEW Circlip!

 

[Explorer_PL]

I removed the CV shafts on mine few times. Nothing complicated, you'll need to remove the tie rod end adn I believe the upper ball joint nut so the knuckle swings open, and then gently pry the CV against the pumpkin, it will come loose easily.
I never thought about replacing the circlip, thanks Imp, good point.
When I was done, I just pushed it back in till it clicked back, no leaks or anything luckily.

 

[relentless85]

Ok. The new cv half shaft came with a new circlip and a new axle but so I should be good there. I am replacing the lower ball joint and hub so I will need to disconnect the upper ball joint anyways.

Any idea on what size the cotter pins are for the upper ball joint and I’m guessing there is one for the tie rod end nut? The new lower ball joint came with a new cotter pin.

Thanks for the tips.

 

[Explorer_PL]

Not sure about the cotter pin sizes. I just keep a box of various sizes I got from auto parts store.

 

[dacaur2]

no cotter pins stock, if its been replaced before it might have one, but we wouldn't be able to help with size....

 

[Paul Fithian]

@relentless85. Always use a NEW Circlip!

Can you advise why?

 

[imp]

Can you advise why?

@Paul Fithian

No, not really. Just repeating what Ford Shop manuals say. I suppose a possibility exists where the clip is unintentionally expanded when being removed, then put back in it's groove, it is then loose, and inserting the axle shaft splined stub into the diff gear could push the clip ahead of it, with no retaining of the axle shaft being the result. imp

 

[dacaur2]

certainly not a bad idea to replace it, but its not as if its going anywhere (the driveshaft). It doesnt hold the wheel on or anything...

 

[Explorer_PL]

I think I am still on original CV shafts all around that were pulled few times out of the front pumpkin, and just pushed back in.
No leaks or issues, and I am up there with the miles.

 

[imp]

certainly not a bad idea to replace it, but its not as if its going anywhere (the driveshaft). It doesnt hold the wheel on or anything...

Keep in mind that one of those two CV joints has to move IN and OUT, as the length of the axle shaft changes as suspension travels up and down. Without proper Circlip holding, the CV can move too far, as the spline can slide inside the diff bearing. No good! imp