Front Drive Shaft: Installation

Before installation, check the drive shaft. Refer to INSPECTION , Front Drive Shaft.
Replace the differential side retainer oil seal with a new part.
- 6MT model: Refer to DIFFERENTIAL SIDE RETAINER OIL SEAL .
- 5AT model: Refer to DIFFERENTIAL SIDE RETAINER OIL SEAL .
- CVT model: Refer to DIFFERENTIAL SIDE RETAINER OIL SEAL .
NOTE: After pulling out the drive shaft, be sure to replace with a new oil seal.
Insert the drive shaft into the hub spline, and pull in the drive shaft into specified position.
CAUTION: Do not hammer drive shaft when installing it.
Tighten the axle nut temporarily.
Using the ST, install the front drive shaft to transmission.
PREPARATION TOOL:

ST: OIL SEAL PROTECTOR (28399SA010)

Fig 1: Installing Front Drive Shaft To Transmission
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Install the front arm ball joint to the front axle housing.
CAUTION: Before tightening, make sure the lower side of front axle housing and stepped section of ball joint are in contact.

Fig 2: Identifying Front Arm Ball Joint To Front Axle Housing
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.

Tightening torque:

50 N.m (5.1 kgf-m, 36.9 ft-lb)
Install the stabilizer link.
CAUTION: Use a new flange nut.

Tightening torque:

60 N.m (6.12 kgf-m, 44.3 ft-lb)
While pressing the brake pedal, tighten the new axle nuts to the specified torque.
CAUTION: Do not load the front axle before tightening the axle nut. Doing so may damage the hub bearing.

Tightening torque:

220 N.m (22.43 kgf-m, 162.3 ft-lb)
After tightening axle nut, lock it securely.
Fill transmission gear oil. (MT model)
Fill differential gear oil. (AT and CVT models)
Install the front wheels.
Tightening torque:

120 N.m (12.24 kgf-m, 88.5 ft-lb)
Inspect the wheel alignment and adjust if necessary.