driver side axle

[gogogsr]

Hey guys, i'm changing my brakes and cleaning my auto hub and my front axle u-joints are really nasty and was wondering if i have to disconnect the tie-rod to pull them out or is there any alternative to check if the u-joints are bad. Thanks guys

 

[Shran]

You don't have to do anything with the steering, but you do have to pull the brakes and everything off and remove the spindle to get the axle shaft out.

 

[gogogsr]

ok, thanks Shran, so its pretty straigth forward

 

[Roadkill]

Sometimes getting the spindle off can be a bit tough. Just remember NOT to ding the spindle shaft as the bearings ride on it. It usually is corroded in there pretty well. It will come out though and it is a good time to clean things up and maybe add a nice coat of Ford blue.

 

[gogogsr]

can i take it apart without being obligated to change the seal and bearing in the spindle?

 

[Shran]

Yup. I'd for sure inspect the spindle bearings and grease them... more often than not, there's nothing but a pile of rust and metal fragments in there.