Nissan 38164-VE060 Shaft Rear Axle

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To remove the drive axle-to-axle shaft flange bolts, first remove the skid plate if equipped. Then, have an assistant apply the brake while you loosen the bolts. This prevents the drive axle from turning while you work.

The rear axle assembly is a hypoid, semi-floating type which allows the outer rear wheel to turn at a higher speed than the inner tire when the vehicle goes around a corner. On 4WD models, a fully independent front axle assembly is used with a differential and a pair of drive axles, each with an inner and outer constant velocity (CV) joint. An optional locking limited-slip rear axle is also available which allows for normal operation until one wheel loses traction. A limited-slip unit is similar in design to a conventional differential, except for the addition of a pair of multi-disc clutch packs which slow the rotation of the differential case when one wheel is on a firm surface and the other is on a slippery one. Often, a suspected "axle" problem lies elsewhere, so it is important to do a thorough check of other possible causes before assuming the axle is the problem. Overhauling the differential isn't cost effective for a do-it-yourselfer, so any further work should be left to a qualified repair shop.

Common symptoms of worn or damaged CV joints include a clicking noise that occurs during turns, a clunking sound when accelerating after coasting, and vibration at highway speeds.

If the bearing or bearing grease seal needs replacement, take the assembly to an automotive machine shop. They will remove the old bearing and seal and install new ones.

Loosen rear wheel lug nuts, raise vehicle and support on jack stands. Block front wheels. Remove rear wheels, disconnect driveshaft, shock absorbers, vent hose, brake line fittings, ABS wheel speed sensor, brake drums and shoes (2WD Frontier only). Disconnect parking brake cables. Unbolt spring U-bolts, spring plates, stabilizer bar brackets (Pathfinder/Xterra only). Remove coil springs, suspension arms and Pan hard rod. Lower jack and remove rear axle assembly. Reverse installation, tighten U-joint strap bolts and suspension fasteners, bleed brakes.

For Pathfinder models, support the front axle assembly with a floor jack placed under the differential. Then, remove the mounting bolts from the support brackets at either end of the axle/differential assembly and slowly lower the assembly to remove it from under the vehicle.