Nissan Repair: cv joints, nissan sentra, cv joints

Question
how do i replace both joints left and right on a nissan sentra. the car is already up on jack stands

Answer
Hi Kenneth -

I would strongly recommend that you replace the entire shaft. If the CV boots are broken, then the joint is already compromised. I did not get the year of your sentra, but here are the general instructions. Do one side at a time:

Normally I would loosen the center hub nut while the vehicle is still on the ground. Sometimes that is a tough one to undo. Since you have it on stands, you might have to have someone step on the brake firmly while you loosen the center nut.
Remove:
Tie rod connection (you will need a special tool to separate the joint, looks like a 2 tined fork)
Upper ball joint
brake caliper
Remove the center nut
Pull everything out of the way, and then work the axle loose from the spline. Tilt the hub assembly out and down to clear the end of the axle.
Once the axle is out, either pull on it sharply, or carefully pry it out of the transmission. It is held in the trans with a "c" clip, so you will need to unsnap it. Pull it straight out of the transmission - do not angle it. You may loose some oil, so keep a pan under the trans.

Once the axle is out, you can replace the joint by hitting it with a large hammer. The joint is also held to the axle by a "c' clip. Preload the new joint with grease and it can be snapped on. Don't forget to put the boot on first before the joint.

Do the same for the other side, and installation is reverse of removal.

Hope this helps -
aloha
calvin

`