1994 Nissan Maxima SE Axle Shafts Installation

On A/T models, right axle shaft must be removed to remove left axle shaft. On all models, cover axle shaft boots with shop towel to prevent damaging boots. Always use NEW snap rings, circular clips and boot clamps during reassembly and installation. Replace axle shaft oil seal in differential before installing axle shaft.
1. Raise and support vehicle. Remove wheel. Remove wheel bearing lock nut from end of drive axle. Remove disc brake caliper and suspend out of way. DO NOT allow caliper to hang by hydraulic hose. 2. Separate tie rod end from steering knuckle. Remove axle shaft from steering knuckle hub using a soft mallet. On models with ball and cage type right axle shaft, remove support bearing retainer-to-block bolts. See Fig. 4 . 3. On all models, pry right axle shaft from transaxle using screwdriver. See Fig. 1 . On M/T models, pry left axle shaft from transaxle using screwdriver. On A/T models, insert screwdriver through right axle shaft hole in differential, and drive out left axle shaft. See Fig. 2 .
Disassembly (Inner Joint Ball & Cage Type)
1. Place axle shaft in soft-jawed vise with inner joint facing up. Remove boot clamps. See Fig. 4 . Mark slide joint housing and inner race in relation to axle shaft for reassembly reference. 2. Remove and discard snap ring "A". See Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 . Remove slide joint housing. Remove snap ring "C". Remove cage, inner race and balls as an assembly. Remove snap ring "B". Cover axle shaft splines with tape. Remove boot. 3. To disassemble support bearing and retainer assembly on right axle shaft, remove dust shield and snap ring "D". See Fig. 4 . Press axle shaft out of support bearing and retainer assembly. Remove snap ring and dust shield from retainer. Using bearing driver and hammer, drive support bearing out of retainer.

Source