Removal of Intermediate Shaft

PROCEDURE

1. Loosen the left front wheel nuts. Raise the front of the vehicle and support it on stands. Remove the wheel.
2. Drain the transaxle oil (refer to the Maintenance and Adjustment Chapter).
3. Remove the damper fork and disconnect the lower control arm from the steering knuckle assembly (refer to the Suspension and Steering Chapter).
4. Using a pry bar against the boot, disconnect the inner CV joint stub shaft from the intermediate shaft assembly. Move the drive shaft aside and secure it with wire to a suspension component (never let the drive shaft hang by the outer CV joint!).

5. Remove the three bolts securing the intermediate shaft bearing support to the engine block. Remove the shaft from the transaxle, taking care not to damage the differential oil seal.

6. Check the support bearing for smooth rotation (hold the bearing and rotate the shaft). If roughness or binding is found, the shaft assembly should be taken to a service shop, as bearing replacement requires special tools.