From what I have read in forum, on the 200 FWD you need to put out the ball joint in the right side to remove the axle. My tie rod end is bad so will be replacing that as well.

So, are any special tools needed or will this do
standard Harbor Freight Tools device

ITEM 38335-6VGA
3-IN-1 BALL JOINT/U-JOINT/C-FRAME PRESS SERVICE KIT
Don't risk damaging essential parts on your vehicle by using the wrong tools. This kit removes and installs ball joints, universal joints and truck brake anchor pins. Even removes rusted and corroded parts with ease. Set includes C-frame press, three receiver tubes (one 2-3/4'' I.D. x 3'' O.D., one 2-1/4'' I.D. x 2-1/2'' O.D. and one 1-3/4'' I.D. x 2'' O.D.) and installation and removing adapters,


I do not wish to remove the strut tower or anything, just get the axle out to clean the outer CV joint and replace boot.
1 mechanic I talked to said you have 50/50 chance of getting the C clip off that holds the CV joint on the axle, replace the whole axle. For $6.25 for the boot, I want to try that first.

Thanks, Bryan

Buy the triple square socket (12 pts) to remove the bolts on the transmission side. Many people have tried using a torx bit, but end up stripping the bolt head.

This is one dirty messy job. Many people have removed the axle and taken it into a axle shop to let them reboot the CV joint.

PepBoys carry the Lisle set of triple square.

<img src="http://www.zdmak.com/wbstore/images/VVVXZN100lgss.jpg"><ul><li><a href="http://www.zdmak.com/wbstore/main.asp?LowCt=0&amp;action=cat&amp;cat=ZDMAK%20SPECIALS">Zdmak's Triple square</a></li></ul>

Yeap, I have the triple square 12 point needed.
It will be a mess, but about a $350 mess in green ones if I pay the garage, at least.

What about the ball joint and tie rod extractors, any press out kind will work?


Trying to re-use the ball joint so don't want to use the pickel fork and distroy boot.

Thanks, Bryan

Do not use anything to attempt to spread the knuckle to free the balljoint. I use a six foot long bar to pry downward. It the joint sticks, tapping the control arm while prying can free it.