I getting ready to replace the drivers side half shaft on my 96 accord ex, 2.2L Auto Trans. I wanted to know if transaxle needs to be drained before pulling? I've got a Chiltons but it's not specific on this. Let me know if you have furtherinsight on this topic.

 

The trans doesn't need to be drained. Somefluid will drain out when you remove the half shaft (I remember more drained out when replacing the passenger side half shaft), so have a catch pan under the trans when removing. Just top off the transmission when finished replacing the half shaft.

If the transmission fluid is due for a change, then you can change it while you are down there.

 

You shouldnt lose anymore than half a quart.

 

I'll bet you don't lose a drop of fluid

 

Thanks for the replies...this is an excellent forum.

So let me ask this...it looks like the rotor & caliper doesn't have to be removed for this, right? It looks like spindle nut, damper fork and lower arm ball joint gets you in position to remove. Anything else? How much time do you think it would take the average shade tree mechanic to do the job?

Cheers

 

You've got it all figured out, loosen the nut on the lower ball joint, then smack it where the joint stud passes thru the control arm. The nut stays on the stud until it comes loose in the control arm hole in case you miss with the hammer.
Saves the threads on the joint stud.
Lube the axle seals at the differential with some silicone grease if ya have it; and be careful starting the CV joint into the differential so you don't rupture the seal.

I don't know how long it will take to do on the ground with jacks and jack stands; 3 hours maybe?
Just hurry every chance you get; the flat rate time has been cut back to 7/10s of an hour. [sm=boohoo.gif]

EDIT: I found this pic of my friend 'Guido' hitting a lower ball joint.
You can notice the screwjack putting a little upward pressure on the hub; it helps make the ball joint come loose with less swings of Guido

[IMG]local://upfiles/5417/A23E962A13F245198DA256CD0EA94AE4.jpg[/IMG]

 

Jeff..........if you go to our DIY section there is an How to replace axle instructions