Suggestions in front AWD maintenance

[Kidd7]

I replaced the rear bearings and seals and noticed I have a leak from my front axle seal. So the plan is to replace those soon. My question: are there axle bearings in there? I figure I should replace those having it apart. And should I replace the cv 1/2 axles or do the hold up pretty well? I have no nose from them and don't notice any issue from the cv's. Just looking for some experienced suggestions, thanks. This is on a 2000 AWD Mountaineer.

 

[Dan Whitaker]

There is a needle bearing on each side just like the rear axle.

 

[SoNic67]

Check the front shaft CV joint (next to Transfer Case - Central Differential). I have mine replaced and several others had that fail suddenly on AWD's at this age (they work harder than on the 4x4's)...

 

[Kidd7]

What am I looking for in the cv axle? On previous fwd cars I've always replaced when clicking on turns started our ripped boots. Thanks.

 

[shadowless127]

Ripped boot is a sign that you need to replace.

I just had mine replaced because I thought it was causing an issue (which it wasnt) but I dont regret replacing it because at 155K miles I knew it was a ticking time bomb.