Explorer 4WD V8-4.6L (2008)
Axle Shaft Assembly: Description and Operation
Front Drive Halfshafts
Front Drive Halfshafts
The front axle halfshafts consist of the following:
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Inner constant velocity (CV) joints
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Outer CV joints
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Interconnecting shafts
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A circlip stopper that holds the cross-groove inboard race assembly (inboard CV joint) together
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A circlip that retains the splined inboard CV joint to the differential side gear on the LH halfshaft
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A circlip that retains the splined RH inboard CV joint to the intermediate shaft
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CV joint boot clamps
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Convoluted CV joint boots
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Tripod joint housings
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Ball and cage housings
The front axle halfshafts are driven by the differential side gears inside the front axle assembly or the RH axle shaft. Rotational torque is transferred
from the stub shafts through the inner CV joint, intermediate shaft and outer CV joint to the outer stub shaft. The outboard stub shafts are splined to
drive the wheel hubs. They are retained in the wheel hubs by special wheel hub nuts, which also control the wheel bearing preload. The LH halfshaft is
splined on the inboard stub shaft and is retained in the differential side gear in the transaxle by a circlip. The RH halfshaft has internal splines which
are driven by the axle shaft. The axle shaft has a circlip on the outboard end and is retained inside the inboard stub shaft. New circlips must be
installed whenever they are removed. The CV joint mates the interconnecting shaft with the stub shaft. The joint allows for smooth rotation of the
interconnecting shaft and the stub shafts. They also adjust for length variances and angle requirements as the vehicle goes through jounce and rebound.
Handle all halfshaft components carefully during removal and installation and during various component disassembly and assembly procedures. Never
pick up or hold the halfshaft only by the inboard or outboard CV joint. Do not overangle the CV joints. Damage will occur to an assembled inboard
CV joint if it is overplunged outward from the joint housing. Never use a hammer to remove or install the halfshafts from the front hub. Never use the
halfshaft assembly as a lever to position other components. Always support the free end of the halfshaft. Do not allow the boots to contact sharp edges
or hot exhaust components. Handle the halfshaft only by the interconnecting shaft to avoid pull-apart and potential damage to the CV joints. Excessive
pulling force on the interconnecting shaft between joints of the halfshaft will result in internal joint damage. Axial loads used in assisting removal must
be applied through the inboard joint housing only. Do not drop assembled halfshafts. The impact will cut the boots from the inside without evidence of
external damage. Do not remove the outer CV joint by pulling on the interconnecting shaft. Inspect all machined surfaces and splines for damage.