The half shaft on a 1997 Nissan Sentra is also called a constant velocity (CV) axle. It transmits the power from the engine to the front wheels. CV joints are splined on both ends. The short splined end with the circlip is the transmission end while the opposite end is splined through the front wheel bearing in the spindle. It is held in the front spindle with the use of a thick washer and large nut.
Raise and support the vehicle on jack stands. Remove the front tires, using the ½-inch drive ratchet and appropriate socket.
Extract the two bolts securing the brake caliper to the mounting bracket. Lift the caliper off the rotor and hang the caliper on the spring using a suitable piece of wire. The idea is to not allow the caliper to hang by its hose or it will collapse the hose.
Remove the large axle nut in the center of the spindle securing the shaft to the spindle. Remove the two large 18mm bolts and nuts from the base of the strut where it attaches to the spindle, using an 18mm socket and a wrench in the same dimensions. Pull the bolts out once loosened and separate the strut from the spindle.
Push the half shaft out of the spindle. It may be necessary to use the prybar to pry the lower control arm down while pulling the cv joint out of the spindle.
Force the half shaft out of the transmission using the large screwdriver. Place the screwdriver between the transmission and the inner CV joint and with a quick jerk pry the axle out of the transmission. Install the new CV joint and other removed parts in reverse order of removal.
