How-To Replace your CV Shaft

This how-to is about replacing my passenger side worn out CV shaft on my 2003 Ranger 4x4. This will apply to many other years also.

Tools Required:

• Jack

• Jack stands

• 4-Way Lug Wrench to Remove Lug Nuts

• 15 mm Socket

• 21 mm Socket

• 1-1/4 in Socket

• 1/2 in Ratchet

• 1/2 in Breaker Bar

• 15 mm Wrench

• Needle Nose Pliers

• Hammer

• screwdriver

• Pry Bar

• Zip Ties

Step 1

Jack up truck and secure it with jack stands. Now remove the wheel.

Step 2

Remove Axle nut

You can do this 2 ways, have a buddy sit inside the truck and hold the brakes or use a screwdriver like I did to stop the axle from turning. Eat your Wheaties and give it hell. Use 1/2 in breaker bar and 1-1/4 in socket.

Step 3

Locate and remove your brake caliper bolts. 15mm socket.

Top bolt

Bottom bolt

Step 4

Use zip ties to secure brake caliper out of the way. DO NOT let it dangle by the brake fluid hose.

Step 5

Remove upper ball joint pinch bolt, use 15mm socket and 15mm wrench. To remove the bolt use a screwdriver and hammer to drive the bolt out.

Now using the hammer hit the upper control arm to separate the upper ball joint from the knuckle.

Step 6

Remove tie rod end from knuckle. Use 21mm wrench and needle nose pliers to remove cotter pin.

Use hammer to separate tie rod end from knuckle.

Step 7

Now you are ready to remove the CV shaft. Separate the front part of the CV shaft from hub then prepare to remove the back of the shaft from the front axle. Use a pry bar and hammer to remove the shaft from the axle.

Pull the shaft out

Now reverse everything and you are done.