Service Information: Rear axle shafts

Due to recent events, please note the following:

The mixed installation of rear axle shafts of different types (rear axle shafts with hollow shaft or with solid shaft) or of different weights is not permissible. The type of installed rear axle shaft involved can be determined by weighing the corresponding, removed and cleaned rear axle shaft.

To do so, take into account the following description and the table below for the weights of the rear axle shafts:

1 When removed, thoroughly clean rear axle shaft.

2 Weigh rear axle shaft.

3 Compare the weight of the removed and cleaned rear axle shaft with the values for the weight as listed in the table below to determine the type and part number of the rear axle shaft involved.

The mixed installation of rear axle shafts with different weights and/or types (rear axle shafts with hollow shaft or with solid shaft) or of different weights is not permissible.

 Rear axle shafts of the same type and weight must always be installed on both sides.
Otherwise, consequential damage may occur.

 When replacing a rear axle shaft (see document AR35.30-S-0620E), the above-mentioned description must be used to check the type and weight of the installed rear axle shaft involved.
In accordance with the result of the test, a new rear axle shaft of the same type and weight must be installed. In case of any doubt, the rear axle shaft on the opposite side must also be removed, cleaned and weighed.
If only one version of the rear axle shafts is available in the replacement parts sector and this does not match the version of the rear axle shafts installed on the vehicle, both rear axle shafts must then be replaced. The process must be documented under the AO text tab in the Vehicle Documentation (VeDoc). The rear axle shafts must be determined in accordance with the vehicle identification number (FIN) in the XENTRY Portal parts information system (see parts ordering note below).