OEM 2005 Cadillac CTS CV Joint

2005 Cadillac CTS Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to replace the outer CV Joint and seal on 2005 Cadillac CTS?

  A: You should start replacing the outer joint and seal of the constant velocity joint by cutting the large seal retaining clamp from the CV Joint using a side cutter and discarding the clamp. Position a manual grinder over the swage ring while carefully grinding it until it breaks without damaging the wheel drive shaft's inboard seal. The halfshaft outboard seal should be detached from the position it holds on the CV Joint outer race so you can move it along the halfshaft bar. First wipe off grease from the inner CV Joint race and then use snap ring pliers (J8059) to widen the retaining ring's ear section. Take out the halfshaft bar featuring the CV Joint assembly then dispose of its outboard seal. Tap the CV Joint cage with a brass drift instrument to extract the full set of six chrome alloy balls while manipulating its position. First dry and inspect all components before proceeding with the repair. Clean the inner and outer race assemblies and CV Joint cage and chrome alloy balls extensively using cleaning solvent followed by complete drying. Inspect each item for unusual wear along with cracks or damage then replace any compromised parts. Rust removal in the seal mounting area requires cleaning the halfshaft bar with a wire brush. An unswaged new swage ring must be installed onto the outboard seal at its neck before the seal can be-mounted onto the halfshaft bar within its seal groove. By using drive axle swage ring clamp (J41048) you can swage the ring through an alignment process while alternately tightening bolts until both surfaces reach their lowest position. Proper alignment between the outboard seal and halfshaft bar and swage ring must be achieved while performing this process. Swaged ring lip conditions must be checked before applying service kit grease to inner and outer race ball grooves. Place the inner race inside the cage before you insert both into the outer race with the retaining ring side pointing toward the halfshaft bar. Push the CV Joint with grease onto the halfshaft bar until the retaining ring attains proper seating. Set the outboard seal's large diameter over the outer race of the CV Joint and position its lip in the specified groove. Use drive axle seal clamp pliers (J35910) to crimp the seal retaining clamp to 174 nm (130 ft. Lbs.) while checking the clamp ear gap dimension until it reaches 1.9 mm (5/64 inch).