Drive Unit - Rear - Large - Remove And Install: Removal

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 9 other vehicles, including the 2020 Tesla Model S, 2019 Tesla Model S, 2018 Tesla Model S, 2017 Tesla Model S, and 2016 Tesla Model S. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the rear subframe assembly. See Large RDU .
NOTE: Before continuing, move the subframe fixture to the gantry.
Disconnect the motor encoder.

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Release the wheel speed sensor harnesses from the grommets on the subframe.

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On both sides of the subframe, release the bolt that secures the upper link to the knuckle (torque 140 N.m).
On both sides of the subframe, release the bolt that secures the toe link to the knuckle (torque 130 N.m).
Position the axle remover cable around the inner joint of the LH rear drive unit halfshaft, and then use a cable tie to hold the axle remover cable in position.

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Hook the axle remover slide hammer on the 2 axle remover cable loops, and then use the slide hammer to remove the halfshaft from the drive unit.
Repeat the previous 2 steps to remove the RH rear drive unit halfshaft.
Attach the drive unit sling to the gantry, and then install the bolts (x3) that attach the sling to the drive unit.
NOTE: Secure the short bolt to the motor section of the drive unit.
Loosen the nuts that secure the front and rear motor mounts to the subframe (torque 90 N.m).

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Loosen the bolts (x3) that secure the motor to the side motor mount. (torque 22 N.m).
Tip: It might be helpful to only use the gantry bolt that secures to the motor. This allows the drive unit to be rotated to better align the bolt holes.

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Tip: When removing the bolts that secure the front and rear motor mounts, it might be helpful to use a screwdriver or small prybar to pry against the subframe. This helps to align the bolt holes in the motor mounts with the subframe so that the bolts can be easily removed.
Remove the bolt that secures the front motor mount (torque 90 N.m).
Remove the bolt that secures the rear motor mount (torque 90 N.m).
CAUTION: While lifting the drive unit assembly in the next step, have an assistant brace a screwdriver or similar tool against the subframe and hold the stabilizer bar out of the way. Do not brace the tool against the motor mount.

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Carefully lift the drive unit assembly, making sure to clear the rear of the subframe.
CAUTION: Do not damage the motor encoder plastic housing.