Removal and Replacement

Fig. 3 Driveshaft Removal.:

1. Remove battery, battery tray and air cleaner assembly, and drain transaxle fluid.
2. Disconnect transaxle control cable, fluid cooler lines and shift control solenoid valve connector.
3. Disconnect inhibitor switch, kickdown servo switch connector, pulse generator connector, oil temperature sensor connector, and speedometer cable.
4. Remove starter assembly, transaxle upper connecting bolt and transaxle mounting bracket.
5. Remove transaxle under-guard, then disconnect tie rod end from steering knuckle using steering linkage puller tool No. MB990635 or equivalent. Loosen the nut but do not remove it.
6. Remove the lower arm ball joint connection using puller tool No. MB990635 or equivalent. Loosen the nut but do not remove it.
7. Insert a pry bar between the transaxle case and the driveshaft and pry driveshaft loose from the case, Fig. 3. Do not pull on driveshaft or insert pry bar too deep or oil seal will be damaged. Secure driveshaft away from transaxle with rope or wire.
8. Remove bellhousing cover, driveplate connection and transaxle assembly lower connecting bolt.
9. Support transaxle assembly using a suitable jack, move to the right and lower out of chassis.
10. Reverse procedure to install.