Just looking for confirmation of a couple things before I tear into this. Going to replace my carrier bearing as it is howling like crazy. I opted to try the bearing alone instead of buying the axle assembly. I've read some posts on here, and haven't gotten a firm answer on two big questions I have-

1) Is the carrier bearing PRESSED on to the shaft, or can I remove/replace the bearing myself (without a press)?

2) How does the axle come out of the transaxle? Is there a retaining clip or not? I've seen both yes' and no's when discussing the passenger side- some say the carrier bearing keeps it in the trans, so there's no retainer. Others say there is a retainer clip (like the driver's side). Anyone know for certain?


Thanks!

Axle should just pop out. I never took my bearing off though. Just had it out to do the clutch and put it back in.

UPDATE- Carrier bearing replacement completed today- it's FIXED! First time I've driven it since I bought it with NO HOWLING BEARING! Yay! I put Royal Purple Synchromax fluid in it, hoping that the shifting would get smoother, but so far not noticing a big difference. :(

Might have to go STS down the road soon...

I effin' LOVE this car!

For the purposes of anyone searching for this topic in the future, I'll answer my own questions.

The carrier bearing IS pressed on/off of the half shaft.

The passenger axle just pops out of the side of the trans- no retainer, etc.


Not a hard job, really. Fortunately I already had one knuckle disassembly under my belt from changing the right front wheel bearing. That experience made this project much easier.

Enjoy!