How to Remove a 2000 Ford Focus LX CV Half Shaft

The half-shaft -- more commonly called the drive-axle -- in the 2000 Ford Focus LX connects the transaxle to the wheel. Precision constant velocity joints at each end of the drive axle allow the transaxle to apply torque from the engine to the wheel, while the wheel is turning and traveling with the suspension, without binding. When the dust boot surrounding the CV joints tears road grime and dirt enter the joint and destroy it. The average home mechanic can replace the half-shaft in an afternoon using common tools and equipment.

Instructions

1

Loosen the lug nuts one-half turn on the side of the Focus containing the faulty drive axle. Roll a floor jack under the reinforced lifting point behind the front wheel opening under the rocker panel pinch weld. Lift the car using the floor jack until the wheel is off the ground and place a jack stand under the front subframe for safety. Remove the wheel.

2

Remove the axle nut located in the center of the hub using a 36-mm axle socket and a breaker bar. Place a punch into the dimple on the end of the axle and push the axle into the hub, by striking the punch with a hammer, to loosen it from the hub. The axle will not push completely out of the hub at this time. It will only slide within the hub.

3

Remove the lower ball joint pinch bolt from the steering knuckle using a T-45 Torx socket and a 15-mm wrench. Pry down on the lower control arm using a pry bar until the ball joint slips out of the steering knuckle.

4

Pull the steering knuckle towards you and slide the drive axle from the back of the hub and bearing assembly. Position the drain pan under the transaxle below the drive axle.

5

If removing the drive axle on the right side of the Focus, remove the two 13-mm retaining nuts that attach the intermediate shaft to the engine block using a 13-mm wrench and slide the axle from the transaxle, prying it out of the transaxle. To remove the axle on the left side place a pry bar between the inner joint of the axle and the transaxle and pry the axle out with a rapid movement of the pry bar.

6

Slide the new axle into the transaxle and rotate it until it engages the splines inside the transaxle. Push the axle into the transaxle until it seats completely. Reinstall the retaining nuts on the intermediate shaft on the right-side drive axle.

7

Slip the axle into the back of the hub and screw the axle nut onto the axle loosely. Reinstall the lower ball joint into the steering knuckle and install the pinch bolt. Torque the axle nut to 173 foot-pounds using a torque wrench. Clean off the brakes and reinstall the wheel. Torque the lug nuts to 100 foot-pounds.

8

Remove the jack stand and lower the jack until the car is on the ground. Test drive the Focus to verify the repair is complete.