Removal / refitting

The intermediate shaft is also grooved and, like the axle shafts, it is made from high strength steel. Its purpose is to connect the output of the differential with the right hand axle shaft to which it is connected by a flange.

For this reason, to limit the overhang between the connection points, the intermediate shaft is supported by a seat machined especially on the gearbox.

1. Bearing retainer plate
2. Ball bearing
3. Spring washer
4. Bearing retainer ring
5. Cup for bearing

REMOVAL / REFITTING

The following procedure refers to removing/refitting the left-hand axle shaft. It is however possible to follow the whole procedure also for removing the right-hand axle shaft.

• Set the car on a lift.
• Disconnect the battery.
• Raise the car.
• Remove the wheel and mud flap from the left-hand wheel house.
• Working from the left-hand wheelhouse, disconnect the brake pad wear sensor electrical connection.
• Release the ABS inductive sensor from the support bracket.

1. Slacken the bolts fastening the left constant velocity joint from the differential flange retrieving the safety plates.

40 ÷ 52 Nm
4.1 ÷ 5.3 kgm

1. Slacken the two bolts fastening the left wheel upright to the shock absorber, then withdraw only the upper bolt.

This operation makes it possible to move back the axle shaft just enough to disconnect the constant velocity joint.