It is recommended to replace the axle shaft seal when the axle shaft is replaced. To remove the front axle shaft, loosen the wheel lug nuts, raise the vehicle, and support it securely on jackstands before removing the wheel. If needed for access to the inner CV joint, remove the pushpins and splash shield. With the brakes applied, remove the axle shaft/hub nut and obtain a new nut without discarding the old one. Disconnect the brake hose bracket and wheel speed sensor wiring harness from the shock absorber, and if necessary, remove the brake caliper and bracket, supporting them to prevent damage. Separate the control arm from the steering knuckle, then use a drive hub remover to separate the axle shaft from the hub. Swing the knuckle/hub assembly out until the axle shaft is free, securing it with wire to avoid strain on the inner CV joint. For the right side axle shaft, remove the intermediate shaft support bearing nuts; for the left side, use an axle shaft remover or pry the inner CV joint out carefully. Support the CV joints and remove the axle shaft. For installation, pry off the old spring clip and install a new one, lubricate the differential or transfer case shaft seal, and raise the axle shaft into position while supporting the CV joints. Ensure the spring clip is positioned correctly and push the inner CV joint into the differential, checking that the clip locks in place. Install the intermediate shaft support bearing bracket nuts for the right side and apply grease to the outer CV joint splines before installing the stub axle into the hub. Reconnect the control arm, reinstall the brake caliper and bracket if removed, and connect the tie rod. Seat the axle shaft using the old nut, tighten it to the specified torque, then replace it with a new nut. The axle shaft/hub nut must be tightened before lowering the vehicle to prevent damage to the wheel bearings. For the rear axle shaft on AWD models, block the front wheels, raise the rear, and remove the wheel. Remove the wheel speed sensor and brake line bracket, then hang the brake caliper without disconnecting the hose. Have an assistant depress the brake pedal and remove the axle shaft/hub nut, using a drive hub remover to separate the axle shaft from the wheel hub. For 2007 and earlier models, remove the hub and bearing assembly; for 2008 and later models, support the lower control arm and unbolt the upper control arm and shock absorber. Disconnect the outer toe link and upper stabilizer bar link, then support the wheel knuckle and loosen the lower arm nut and bolt. Pry the inner end of the axle shaft out of the differential, and for 2007 and earlier models, pass the outer end of the shaft up through the wheel knuckle. For 2008 and later models, swing the knuckle outward to separate the outer end from the hub. For installation, replace the spring clip, apply grease to the inner CV joint stub shaft, and insert it into the differential, ensuring the clip locks in place. For 2007 and earlier models, apply grease to the outer CV joint splines, install the hub and bearing assembly, and tighten the bolts. For 2008 and later models, apply grease to the outer CV joint splines, swing the knuckle outward, and insert the outer end into the hub. Seat the axle shaft using the old nut, tighten it, and install the bolts connecting the control arms to the wheel knuckle. Reinstall the wheel speed sensor, ensuring the new axle shaft/hub nut is tightened before lowering the vehicle. Install a new axle shaft nut, tighten it with the brake applied, and complete the installation by using new suspension fasteners and tightening them, followed by reinstalling the wheel and lug nuts before lowering the vehicle and tightening the lug nuts.
Posted by FordPartsGiant Specialist 
