1. Gather Tools and Parts:
- Replacement side drive axle
- Socket wrench set
- Pry bar
- Jack and jack stands
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
2. Lift and Secure the Vehicle:
- Park your Ford Focus on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and turn off the engine.
- Use a jack and jack stands to safely raise the front of the vehicle until the wheel with the faulty axle is off the ground.
3. Remove the Wheel:
- Use the socket wrench to loosen and remove the lug nuts holding the wheel.
- Take off the wheel and set it aside.
4. Locate and Remove the Axle Nut:
- Behind the wheel hub, you'll find the axle nut. Use the socket wrench to loosen and remove it.
5. Disconnect the Steering Tie Rod:
- Locate the outer tie rod end, usually secured by a nut.
- Use the socket wrench to loosen and remove the nut, then detach the tie rod end from the steering knuckle.
6. Remove the Strut Assembly:
- Locate the bolts securing the strut assembly to the steering knuckle.
- Use the socket wrench to loosen and remove these bolts.
- Carefully lift the strut assembly out of the way without completely detaching it from the vehicle. This will provide better access to the drive axle.
7. Remove the Driveshaft Bolts:
- Locate the bolts connecting the driveshaft to the side drive axle.
- Use the socket wrench to loosen and remove these bolts.
- If the bolts are difficult to remove, use a pry bar to gently pry the driveshaft away from the axle.
8. Slide Out the Old Axle:
- Once all the bolts are removed, you can carefully slide the old side drive axle out of the vehicle.
9. Inspect and Replace if Necessary:
- Inspect the old side drive axle for damage or excessive wear.
- Compare it with the new side drive axle to make sure they match.
10. Insert New Side Drive Axle:
- Slide the new side drive axle into place, making sure it aligns correctly with the transmission.
11. Secure the Driveshaft:
- Reinstall the bolts that connect the driveshaft to the side drive axle. Tighten the bolts securely.
12. Reattach Steering Tie Rod:
- Reattach the outer tie rod end to the steering knuckle and tighten the nut.
13. Reinstall the Strut Assembly:
- Carefully lower the strut assembly and secure it back to the steering knuckle with the bolts you removed earlier.
14. Replace Axle Nut:
- Reinstall and tighten the axle nut behind the wheel hub.
15. Reinstall the Wheel:
- Put the wheel back on and secure it with the lug nuts. Tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern until snug.
16. Lower the Vehicle:
- Carefully lower the vehicle using the jack stands.
17. Test Drive:
- Once everything is secure, take the vehicle for a short test drive to ensure the axle is functioning properly.
Note:
- If you encounter any difficulties during the process, it's recommended to consult a mechanic or refer to the vehicle's service manual for specific details on your Ford Focus model.
