front axle broke...how easy to fix?

[Oliver97GT]

So, my beloved 1997 2.5GT has been sitting broken for a while and I'm finally getting around to fixiing it.

The biggest issue is the fact that the passenger side axle appears to be broken - that is, it is no longer connected to the hub - looks like the CV joint is broken. The question is, how difficult is this to replace?

[ivwarrior]

They're usually not TOO bad to replace, if you have the right tools, and pay attention to what needs to be done.

The outer end is held in place with a staked nut. An impact is best for removing this. I also disconnect the outer sway bar link, to allow more travel, and remove the nut and seperate the spindle from the ball joint. Then, you can pull the whole spindle/brake rotor/strut assembly away from the vehicle, to allow room for the outer joint to slip out.

The inner joint is held in place with a roll-pin going through it and the axle stub coming out of the diff. You need a fairly long, straight punch to knock it out, and put it back into the new one. Obviously, on install, you need to make sure the axle is indexed properly to allow the pin to go through. Since my punch is slightly smaller than the pin, and will slide right through easily, I always use it to make sure I've got it lined up right. Also, on the joint, one hole is chamfered. I always start the pin from that side, it's just easier.

Make sure you know the torque spec for the axle nut (I don't off the top of my head) and install is basically the reverse of removal.

[Oliver97GT]

Thanks for the info.

Somewhat related question, one of my wheel studs is broken. Are they easy to replace, or would it be easier to replace the entire hub?

[shazapple]

The local Subaru guys can help out :-D

I have a service PDF that basically says the same thing as ivwarrior.
http://personal.nbnet.nb.ca/apples/MSA5TCD99L249.pdf

[Oliver97GT]

Sweet, thanks man!

BTW - I actually saw your car for the first time a couple months ago, back when we actually had snow.

[shazapple]

I had the blingin steelies on then, lol. Probably wont see me around much this summer though (travelling around the province). You're welcome to come to some ACSC meets if you have time though!

[Oliver97GT]

Yeah, I will have to try to make it once I get the Legacy on the road again. Unfortunately it may be in rough cosmetic shape throughout the summer, but I'm hoping to bring it up to 100% mechanically. The body will have to wait until next year!

[pdawg]

Try this one
http://www.sl-i.net/FORUM/viewtopic.php?t=1139&highlight=axle+replacement

[Oliver97GT]

Ok, another stupid question.

Would I be an idiot if I took off the broken axle, and proceeded to drive the car to my buddy's house so we could fix it there? Or should I just get it towed?

[Plays_with_Toys]

5 speed? I imagine that'd play havoc with your front differential, and you can't tow it, you can only flat bed a 5 speed unless you put the dollies under the rear wheels.