FWD 2pcs CV Axles For 2019 2020 2021 Toyota RAV4 2.5L GAS Front Side

Fitment

For Toyota RAV4 2.5L 2019-2021 Front, GAS, FWD, Japan Built, To 01/2021

CV Axle Features：

1. Constant Velocity (CV) Joints: Each axle has two types of CV joints:

· Inner CV Joint: This joint connects to the transmission or differential. It is designed primarily to accommodate the in-and-out plunging motion as the suspension moves up and down. It is often a Tripod or Plunging Ball-type joint.

· Outer CV Joint: This joint connects to the wheel hub/knuckle. It is designed to handle the extreme angles required for steering the wheels left and right. It is typically a Rzeppa (Ball-type) joint, famous for its ability to operate at high angles.

2. Axle Shaft: A sturdy steel shaft that connects the inner and outer CV joints.

3. CV Boots: These are flexible rubber or thermoplastic boots that enclose each CV joint. They are packed with special high-temperature grease to lubricate the joint. The boots are crucial because they keep contaminants (dirt, water) out and grease in. A torn CV boot is a common failure point that leads to joint wear.

4. Durability: CV axles are engineered to withstand high levels of torque, shock loads, and extreme operating angles.

CV Axle Installation Location：

The CV axle is located at each driven wheel. For a front-wheel-drive car, you will find one CV axle on the left and one on the right side.

•  The inner end of the CV axle splines into the transmission's differential.
•  The outer end splines into the wheel hub or steering knuckle and is secured by a large nut.

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In AWD vehicles, all four wheels have CV axles connecting the front/rear differentials to the wheels.

Installation steps for CV Axle:

Step 1:Safety Preparation

• Park the vehicle on a level, solid surface and engage the parking brake.

• Loosen the large axle nut (hub nut) on the wheel while the vehicle is still on the ground.

• Safely lift the vehicle and support it with jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.

• Remove the wheel.

Step 2:Disconnection

• Remove the Axle Nut: Completely remove the pre-loosened axle nut.

• Disconnect Components: Disconnect any components that obstruct the axle's removal. This typically includes:

• Brake caliper and rotor (hang the caliper safely with a wire, do not let it dangle by the brake hose).

• Tie rod end from the steering knuckle.

• Lower ball joint or control arm from the steering knuckle.

Step 3: Separate the Knuckle

• Use a ball joint separator tool to safely free the steering knuckle from the control arm or strut. Once separated, you can pull the entire steering knuckle assembly outward. This creates enough space to pop the CV axle out of the wheel hub and the transmission.

Step 4: Remove the CV Axle

• Outer End: Pull the steering knuckle back to slide the outer CV joint splines out of the wheel hub. You might need a pry bar to gently persuade it.

• Inner End: Carefully pry the inner CV joint out of the transmission using a pry bar. Be cautious not to damage the transmission seal or housing. Place a drain pan underneath, as some transmission fluid may leak out.

Step 5: Preparation and Installation of the New Axle

• Compare the new CV axle with the old one to ensure they are identical.

• Carefully transfer any necessary components (e.g., ABS ring, circlips) from the old axle to the new one if they are not pre-installed.

• Important: Do not over-angle the new axle, as this can damage the CV boots.

Step 6: Install the New CV Axle

• Inner End: Gently push the inner CV joint's splines into the transmission until it "clicks" and is fully seated. A new transmission seal is often recommended at this time.

• Outer End: Slide the outer CV joint splines through the wheel hub.

Step 7: Reassembly

• Reconnect the steering knuckle to the ball joint and control arm. Reconnect the tie rod end.

• Reinstall the brake rotor and caliper.

• Install the wheel but do not fully tighten the lug nuts yet.

Step 8: Final Torquing

• Before lowering the vehicle, install the new axle nut (always use a new nut if specified by the manufacturer). Tighten it to the manufacturer's specified torque with the vehicle's weight on the wheels (you may need to lower the vehicle onto ramps or the ground for this step). This is critical for proper bearing preload.

• Lower the vehicle completely and perform a final torque on the lug nuts in a star pattern.

Step 9: Check and Refill

• Check the transmission fluid level and top it up if necessary, as some fluid is always lost during removal.

• Test drive the vehicle carefully, listening for any unusual noises, and check for proper operation.

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