Front CV-Axle Replacement Question

[alvocado]

You should be able to slide it off the diff flange after removing the bolts. There's a recess on the flange surface so you have to push the axle toward the knuckle and that makes enough clearance to drop it down. With the strut assembly out, there is plenty of room to pull the axle. I've never had to disconnect the tie rod to change one.

 

[dubdub]

I recently replaced both CV Axles on my 2011 Tahoe 4WD. I did remove the struts on both sides to gain clearance. The struts are fine so I re-installed the original.

Question - Do I need to do an alignment after this work? Anyone care to share their experience/thoughts?

My understanding is to perform wheel alignment one adjusts the eccentric cam bolts on the upper control arm for caster/camber, and the outer tie rods for toe. Since I didn't change those, and used the original struts, I am hoping my alignment did not change. I don't want to waste 150 bucks getting it aligned but I also don't want to end up with premature tire wear. I took it to a shop for a quote before doing it myself and they recommended an alignment, but it may just be a CYA move on their part?

Thanks!

 

[mikez71]

Changing just the CV axles should not affect alignment at all.

 

[donjetman]

I recently replaced both CV Axles on my 2011 Tahoe 4WD. I did remove the struts on both sides to gain clearance. The struts are fine so I re-installed the original.

Question - Do I need to do an alignment after this work? Anyone care to share their experience/thoughts?


Thanks!

No alignment is necessary

 

[dubdub]

Thanks Mikez71 and donjetman!