Billy Covington If you are a Subaru car enthusiast or a DIY mechanic, then understanding how to maintain and repair your vehicle’s front axle is critical. Knowing how to rotate the front axle on jack stands can help improve car performance and extend the life of your vehicle. In this guide, we will explain in detail how to rotate your Subaru front axle on jack stands, so you can get the most out of your car.
Tools Needed
Before you begin, make sure you have the following tools:
- Jack stands
- Floor jack
- Lug wrench or breaker bar
- Wheel chocks
- Socket wrench set
- Torque wrench
- Wheel block
Step-by-Step Procedure
- First, find a flat surface and put your car in park or gear if it is a manual transmission. Chock the rear wheels of your car to prevent it from rolling.
- Use a floor jack to lift the front of the car and place jack stands on both sides of the car. Make sure to place the jack stands under the designated jacking points located on the front lower suspension arms.
- Remove the front wheels of your Subaru using the lug wrench or breaker bar along with the socket wrench set. Place the removed wheels behind the rear wheels to serve as a wheel block.
- Locate the front differential and remove the drain bolt. Set a drain pan underneath the differential and let the fluid drain before replacing the drain bolt.
- Remove the fill bolt on the front differential with the socket wrench set. Insert the fill hose into the differential and add gear oil until it begins to flow out of the fill hole. Once the fluid has drained, replace the fill bolt and hand tighten it before tightening it with a torque wrench.
- Turn the front end of the half shaft clockwise, so that it locks to the differential inside. Next, rotate the front axle counterclockwise to ensure it rotates smoothly. If there’s any resistance, check the CV joints for wear and replace them if necessary.
- Reinstall the front wheels and hand tighten the lug nuts before lowering the vehicle off the jack stands. Tighten the lug nuts with a torque wrench to the manufacturer’s torque specifications.
- After lowering the vehicle, top off the gear oil level in the front differential as needed.
Precautions to Take
It’s essential to take precautions to ensure your safety while rotating your Subaru front axle on jack stands. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Never work under a car that is only supported by a floor jack.
- Always use jack stands on the designated jacking points of your car’s front suspension arms.
- Always use a torque wrench when tightening lug nuts or other bolts to the proper torque specifications.
- Wear safety glasses and gloves while performing maintenance on your vehicle.
FAQ
1. Why do I need to rotate my Subaru front axle on jack stands?
Rotating your Subaru front axle on jack stands can help extend the life of your vehicle by ensuring that the gear oil is evenly distributed throughout the front differential and half shaft.
2. How often should I rotate my Subaru front axle?
It’s recommended to rotate your Subaru front axle every 30,000 to 50,000 miles or as recommended by your vehicle’s owner’s manual.
3. Can I use a hydraulic jack instead of a floor jack?
While hydraulic jacks can be used to lift cars, floor jacks are recommended as they provide greater stability and control.
4. Will rotating my Subaru front axle on jack stands improve car performance?
Rotating your Subaru front axle on jack stands can help improve car performance by ensuring that the front differential and half shaft are properly lubricated, reducing wear and tear on critical components.
5. Can I perform this procedure on my own, or should I take it to a professional?
This procedure can be performed by DIY mechanics but if you are unsure, it’s always best to take your vehicle to a professional mechanic for maintenance and repairs.
By following these steps, you can rotate your Subaru front axle on jack stands easily and safely. Not only can this procedure improve your car’s performance, but it can also extend the life of your vehicle. Always take precautions while performing maintenance on your car, and if you’re unsure, seek the assistance of a professional mechanic.
