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2003-2009 Toyota 4Runner CV Axle / Front Drive Shaft Replacement

This guide shows you how to replace the front...

iFixit Library 2003-2009 Toyota 4Runner Moderate 30 minutes - 2 hours Guide 161729

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This attributed iFixit guide is displayed through Fixonic's recorded commercial API permission. iFixit remains the independent source and author of the procedure.

Guide overview

Before you begin

This guide shows you how to replace the front CV axle drive shaft on a 2004 Toyota 4Runner 4WD, but will apply to all 4WD and 2WD 3rd Gen 4runners. Replacement often is required due to a ripped boot and grease leakage, and you'll feel a rough ride. Replacing the entire axle is more cost-effective than just replacing the rubber boots, and is significantly easier.

Step 1

Repair step

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Remove the dust cap from the wheel hub to access the large nut.

Step 2

Repair step

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Remove the cotter pin from the large nut.

Step 3

Repair step

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Use a 35mm six-point socket to remove the large nut
If your compressor is not working, you can lower the wheel to the ground and use a breaker bar to loosen the nut.

Step 4

Repair step

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Remove the wheel and check that the CV axle is free and can be moved towards the inside.

Step 5

Repair step

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Remove the steering outer tie rod by removing the cotter pin and 19mm nut
Use a puller to release the ball joint without damaging the boot.

Step 6

Repair step

No step image supplied by iFixit.

Remove the two 19mm bolts holding the wheel assembly to the lower control arm.

Step 7

Repair step

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Gently move the entire assembly to gain access to the CV shaft.

Step 8

Repair step

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TOOL USED ON THIS STEP Heavy Hammer Referenced by the iFixit guide

View item

Use a heavy hammer to separate the CV shaft from the wheel hub.

Step 9

Repair step

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Carefully separate the CV shaft from the front differential using a pry bar, making sure not to damage any seals.

Step 10

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Clean the surrounding area before installing the new CV shaft.

Step 11

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Gently install the new CV shaft into the front differential, making sure not to damage any seals.

Step 12

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Apply a small amount of anti-seize to the CV shaft before inserting it into the wheel hub.

Step 13

Repair step

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Use the large nut and 35mm socket to pull the CV shaft all the way into the wheel hub.

Step 14

Repair step

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Check for any leaks or pinched rubber and make sure everything moves freely.

Step 15

Repair step

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Apply blue thread lock to the two large bolts holding the wheel assembly to the lower control arm and tighten them.

Step 16

Repair step

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Reinstall the outer tie rod and use a new cotter pin.

Step 17

Repair step

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Reinstall the wheel and tighten the large nut using a breaker bar
Make sure to use the correct position for the locking pin and secure it with a new cotter pin.

Step 18

Repair step

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Tap the dust cap back into place using a rubber mallet and a small amount of anti-seize. Now that the new CV shaft is installed, you can reinstall any remaining parts and go for a test drive to ensure everything is working correctly.