Axle Assembly: Installation

2013 Volkswagen Beetle Base, 2D Hatchback, 2.5L Eng VIN X, Standard TransSECTION Installation
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Mercury Grand Marquis and 2006 Ford Crown Victoria. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
    WARNING: Use additional support straps to secure the rear axle to the High-Lift Transmission Jack.
  1. Raise the rear axle into position, using a High-Lift Transmission Jack.
    • Seat the air springs.
      Fig 1: Supporting Rear Axle Housing With Suitable Jack
      G04583080Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  2. Install the lower control arm bolts and nuts.
    • Tighten to 150 Nm (111 lb-ft).
      Fig 2: Installing Lower Control Arm Bolts And Nuts
      G04583081Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  3. Install the upper control arm bolts and nuts.
    • Tighten to 105 Nm (77 lb-ft).
      Fig 3: Installing Upper Control Arm Bolts And Nuts
      G04583082Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  4. Install the shock absorbers.
    • Position the shock absorbers into the retainer brackets, and tighten the nuts and bolts.
      • Tighten to 90 Nm (66 lb-ft).
        Fig 4: Installing Shock Absorbers
        G04583083Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  5. Remove the High-Lift Transmission Jack.
  6. Install the Watts linkage on the rear axle housing.
    • Install the retainer nut on the bellcrank stud.
      • Tighten to 250 Nm (185 lb-ft).
        Fig 5: Installing Watts Linkage On Rear Axle Housing
        G04583084Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  7. If equipped with rear air springs, install the height sensor.
    Fig 6: Installing Height Sensor
    G04583085Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  8. Install the rear stabilizer bar bracket bolts.
    • Tighten to 25 Nm (18 lb-ft).
      Fig 7: Installing Rear Stabilizer Bar Bracket Bolts
      G04583086Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  9. Install the rear stabilizer bar link nuts.
    • Tighten to 20 Nm (15 lb-ft).
      Fig 8: Installing Rear Stabilizer Bar Link Nuts
      G04583087Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  10. Position the rear driveshaft and align the marks on the pinion flange.
    Fig 9: Identifying Index Marks On Pinion/Driveshaft Flanges
    G03878625Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  11. CAUTION: The driveshaft centering socket yoke fits tightly on the rear axle pinion flange pilot. To make sure that the yoke seats squarely on the flange, tighten the bolts evenly in a cross pattern.
  12. Install the 4 driveshaft bolts.
    • Tighten to 112 Nm (83 lb-ft).
      Fig 10: Identifying Driveshaft Flange Bolts
      G03878515Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  13. Install the rear disc brake calipers. For additional information, refer to REAR DISC BRAKE .
  14. WARNING: If equipped with fire suppression system, repower the system. For important safety warnings and procedures, refer to FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEM .
  15. Lower the vehicle.
  16. If equipped with rear air springs, turn on the air suspension switch.
RENDER: 1.0x

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • β€’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • β€’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.