Here's a general outline of the steps involved in replacing axles on a 1991 Honda Accord AT:
Gather Necessary Parts and Tools:
Before starting the replacement, ensure you have the following parts and tools ready:
- New axles (left and right)
- Axle seals
- Axle nuts/bolts
- Axle grease
- Socket set
- Wrenches
- Pry bar
- Jack and jack stands
- Safety glasses
Prepare the Vehicle:
1. Park your Honda Accord on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
2. Loosen the lug nuts on the wheels where you'll be replacing the axles, but don't remove them completely.
Raise the Vehicle:
1. Use a floor jack to carefully lift one side of the vehicle to remove the wheel.
2. Place jack stands to securely support the vehicle before proceeding with any work underneath it.
Remove the Wheel and Brake Components:
1. Remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel.
2. Locate the brake caliper and caliper mounting bolts.
3. Use a wrench to remove the caliper mounting bolts and lift the caliper off the rotor.
4. Hang the caliper from a nearby suspension component using a wire or bungee cord. Do not let it hang by the brake line.
5. Remove the brake rotor to expose the axle.
Remove the Old Axle:
1. Locate the axle nut on the inboard side of the CV joint (at the transmission end of the axle). It might be covered by a cotter pin, which you'll need to remove.
2. Using an appropriate wrench, loosen the axle nut but do not remove it completely.
3. Insert a pry bar between the CV joint and the transmission housing. Pry carefully until the axle pops out of the transmission.
4. Once the axle is free from the transmission, pull the entire axle assembly out of the hub on the wheel side of the vehicle. You may need to tap it lightly with a rubber mallet if it's stuck.
Install the New Axle:
1. Compare the new axle with the old one to make sure they're the correct size and type.
2. Before installing, place a sufficient amount of axle grease into the splines of the new axle.
3. Slide the new axle through the hub and into the transmission.
4. Screw on the axle nut hand-tight but do not completely tighten it yet.
Reinstall the Brake Components:
1. Reattach the brake rotor and secure it properly.
2. Mount the brake caliper back onto the caliper mounting bolts and tighten the bolts.
3. Reinstall the wheel and tighten the lug nuts.
4. Lower the vehicle back onto the ground using the jack.
Repeat for the Other Side (if needed):
5. If you're replacing axles on both sides of your vehicle, repeat the process for the other wheel and axle.
Test Drive and Final Checks:
1. Take your Accord for a short test drive (in a safe area and at low speed) to confirm that the new axles are functioning correctly.
2. Check for any leaks or unusual noises from the axle area.
3. Verify the tightness of the axle nuts and lug nuts after the test drive.
Remember that axle replacement requires precision and attention to detail. Always follow proper safety precautions and refer to the vehicle's service manual or a trustworthy repair guide for specific instructions related to your Accord. If you're not confident in your mechanical skills or the complexity of the task, it's best to consult with a professional mechanic.
