Tools and Materials Needed:
- Jack and jack stands or a car lift.
- Safety goggles and gloves.
- Socket set with an extension and breaker bar.
- Pliers.
- Flathead screwdriver or pry bar.
- New CV joint.
- Grease.
Procedure:
1. Preparation:
- Engage the parking brake and loosen the right front lug nuts but don't remove them completely.
2. Raise the Vehicle:
- Securely jack up the front right corner of your Tracker and place it on jack stands or a car lift.
3. Remove Wheel:
- Once the Tracker is raised, remove the lug nuts and take off the right front wheel.
4. Disconnect the Stabilizer Link:
- Locate the stabilizer link connected to the lower portion of the strut. Use a wrench or pliers to detach the link from the suspension.
5. Remove Tie Rod End:
- Find the tie rod end on the front-right side. Loosen the locknut and separate it from the steering knuckle using a wrench or socket.
6. Disconnect the Ball Joint:
- Locate the ball joint connected to the lower control arm. Use a pry bar or flathead screwdriver to separate the ball joint from the steering knuckle.
7. Remove the Driveshaft:
- Slide under the Tracker and find the right driveshaft connected to the wheel hub. Use a breaker bar and socket set to loosen the hub nuts and disconnect the driveshaft.
8. Extract CV Joint:
- Pull the driveshaft out carefully, making sure not to damage any components. This action will reveal the CV joint assembly.
9. Separate the CV Joint:
- Grab the CV joint housing and rotate it counterclockwise to unbolt it from the axle shaft. Remove the old joint and carefully slide it out.
10. Install New CV Joint:
- Slide the new CV joint onto the axle shaft. Rotate the housing clockwise to bolt it back in place.
11. Reassembly:
- Reattach the driveshaft to the wheel hub and tighten the hub nuts.
12. Reconnect Components:
- Reinstall the ball joint, tie rod end, and stabilizer link.
13. Install Wheel:
- Put the wheel back on and tighten the lug nuts.
14. Lower Vehicle:
- Slowly lower the Tracker back to the ground.
15. Test Drive:
- Perform a test drive to check if the CV joint issue is resolved.
Remember, this guide provides general steps and may differ slightly based on your specific model and trim level. If you're not confident in performing the repair yourself, it's best to consult a professional mechanic.
