Front RH Axle Replacement

Discussion in 'Modifications & DIY how-to' started by Davidwrx, Aug 30, 2011.

  1. Davidwrx

    Davidwrx Member

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    I have a torn inner boot on my RH front axle and grease is getting slung on my DP (stinky). I think it may have been the source of some grease I had seen last fall here: http://wrxatlanta.com/forums/showthread.php?t=29357

    I have done a bit of searching and the general consensus is that it is a pretty easy job. My questions are:

    1. Is there any advantage of going with OEM Subaru axle. Looks like about 4 times the cost ($350 vs $80)?

    2. Will the new axle come with a new roll pin and new axle nuts or do I need to get these at the dealer?

    3. Roll pin size for the shaft to the transmission stub - 7/32 right?

    4. The FSM mentions a special tool - axle shaft puller and puller plate (ST1 and ST2) to remove the shaft from hub assembly. Is this necessary?
     
  2. slowwrx

    Supporting Member

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    1. No, the ones you can get from Carquest are actually nicer than the factory ones.

    2. No, you can reuse the roll pin and axle nut. I know it says not to but I promise nothing is going to happen.

    3. You don't need a new one.

    4 You won't need any special tools.
     
  3. SubiNoobi

    Supporting Member

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    I second everything said above. I have replaced 4 axles with NAPA parts and did not need any "special" tools. My new axles did come with new pins though.

    I also got new axle nuts because it wasn't much additional cost, but its probably not necessary.
     
  4. integroid

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    Come by my house David and I will help you. It takes longer to jack up the car and put it on stands than to get the axle out/in.
     
  5. Davidwrx

    Davidwrx Member

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    Thanks for the offer to help. I have a friend up by my work with a lift who said he would help. If that falls through I may be in touch!
     
  6. Smokin_Joe

    Smokin_Joe Member

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    same for XT's?

    should one also assume these are the same axles on an XT?

    if you've owned a honda, would you compare this install to the axle install on a honda?

    I also need to do the PS front axle b/c now the BOOT is missing :)...already slung the grease out.

    Joe
     
  7. integroid

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    I dont think it is the same part number but it is probably the exact same method for removal/installation. It is far easier to change on a Subaru than on a Honda. You dont have to remove the knuckle from the a-arm. There is a bolt that holds the caster onto the knuckls that you can remove so the knuckle itself actually stays in the a arm. No special tools needed.
     
  8. tallgeese2

    tallgeese2 Member

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    the axle is a cake walk
     
  9. Davidwrx

    Davidwrx Member

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    Thanks for all the encouragement. Got this done a couple of weeks ago. No problems. Guess I won't be afraid of the next one.
     

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