2002 Half Shaft Replacement Help

[mreinsmith]

I’m working on replacing the half shafts (automatic Transmission)

All the documentation and posts I’ve read indicate that the shafts should come out without having to remove the upper or lower control arm ball joints.

However, When I went to release the Half Shaft the spline on the inner side (I think they call it the axle shaft) pulled out of the transfer case. The way they describe the procedure, the axle shaft is not supposed to pull out.

I still can’t get a clear answer whether this is supposed to happen. So now I have two problems I need to address before I’ll feel comfortable working on the Passenger side.

1 – I’m assuming I should replace the Bearings in the transfer case at this point?

2 – How do I get the spline off the inner side of the half shaft. I’ve read there is a puller to do the Job, but I need to find where to get one. Unless there is a more practical way to do it? (it is really seized in there)

My fear of course is now the Transfer case is screwed up, but I don’t think that is case, I just need to be sure before I go any farther

Any help on this issue would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks

M

[6shooter]

if your replacing half shafts, or axle shafts, or CV shafts (same part, different names), you shouldn't be touching anything anywhere near the transfer case. i replaced my lower ball joints two months ago, and as long as i was there, i replaced both axle seals on the front axle, where the axle shafts go into the axle housing. to pull the axle shafts all the way out, you either need to pull the wheel bearing assembly so the axle shaft can slide out far enough, or pop the lower balljoint to swing the spindle out of the way. hope this helps. welcome to the forum.

[caulk04]

Sounds like you're working on the front differential. The transfer case is behind the transmission with a drive shaft running to the rear axle and one to the front axle.

It is common for the stub shafts to come out of the front diff. You just need to get them out of the old shaft and stuff them back in, no need for bearing replacement.

[4Lo]

yap don't replace the bearing unless you want too but do grease them up before putting them back together.

[mreinsmith]

Thanks a million for the replies.

I am talking about the front differential, admittedly I am still learning about the 4x4 driveline.

Very relieved to find out that it isn’t uncommon for the stub shafts to pull out!

I did notice something odd. On the driver’s side the connection to the differential contains a bearing (with rollers). On the passenger side the connection contains a bushing (no rollers)

When NAPA searched the part they came up with BEARINGS for both sides. When the dealer searched the part they came up with BUSHINGS for both sides.

I bought 2 of each until I decided which was correct.

I haven’t installed them yet, but we’re thinking of replacing them as they were (bearing on one side and bushing on the other)

Any thoughts?

Thanks again for your help

M