Special tools and workshop equipment required
Removing
- Loosen the drive axle threaded connection on the wheel side. Refer to → Chapter "Drive Axle Threaded Connection, Loosening and Tightening".
- Remove the ABS speed sensor. Refer to → Brake System; Rep. Gr.45; Sensors; Right/Left Front ABS Wheel Speed Sensor G45/G47, Removing and Installing.
- Remove the brake rotor. Refer to → Brake System; Rep. Gr.46; Front Brakes; Brake Rotor, Removing and Installing.
- Remove the bolt -arrow- and remove the bracket -1- for the brake line and wires from the wheel bearing housing.
- Loosen nut of track rod ball joint, but do not unscrew yet.
- Press off tie rod end from wheel bearing housing with Puller - Ball Joint -3287A--1- and then remove nut.
- If installed, remove the nut -4- and free up the coupling rod from the Left Front Level Control System Sensor -G78--3-.
- Disconnect threaded connection of wheel bearing housing/suspension strut -arrow-.
- Insert the Spreader Tool -3424--1- into wheel bearing housing slot.
- Turn the ratchet 90º and remove it from the Spreader Tool -3424--1-.
- Remove the nuts -arrows-.
- Remove the control arm out of wheel bearing housing with ball joint.
Note
Pay attention during the assembly work that the ball joint rubber boot is not damaged. If necessary protect the ball joint rubber boot against damage.
- Remove the wheel bearing housing downward from the shock absorber tube and remove the drive axle from the wheel hub.
Note
- Remove the wheel bearing housing with ball joint.
Installing
Install in reverse order of removal while noting the following:
- Install the brake caliper. Refer to → Brake System; Rep. Gr.46; Front Brakes; Brake Caliper, Removing and Installing.
- Tighten the twelve-point bolt on the driveshaft. Refer to → Chapter "Drive Axle Threaded Connection, Loosening and Tightening".
- An axle alignment may be required. Refer to → Chapter "Evaluating Need for Axle Alignment".
- On vehicles with electronically controlled damping, perform the function "Adapt the control position" with the Vehicle Diagnosis Tester.
- If the control position was reprogrammed and if the vehicle has lane assist, then it will then be necessary to calibrate the driver assistance systems front camera. Refer to → Chapter "Driver Assistance Systems Front Camera, Calibrating".
- On vehicles with level control system sensor, perform headlamp basic setting. Refer to → Electrical Equipment; Rep. Gr.94; Headlamp, Adjusting.
Tightening Specifications