I searched and found a thread, but still wasn't sure. I need to replace both front cv axles, and went to advanced auto, but they told me the 4runners with ABS have different cv's than the ones without? The ones "for abs" are $333, and the normal cv's are $79. Can I not just use the ones "not made" for ABS? Oh yeah, 3rd gen 4runner, 97, sr5 3.4L. Thanks guys.

 

http://www.partsamerica.com/ProductD...pe=945&PTSet=A

I have the same truck as you, with ABS. Installed this exact CV shaft about two months ago. To answer your question, I didn't see where they had certain part numbers for ABS or not. I believe the ABS ring is on the hub, there isn't one on the CV shaft at all. So it should not make any difference as far as the axle shaft is concerned. Someone correct me if I'm wrong.

 

As far as I know you are right. I sure as heck didn't spend over $300 on my CVs from Napa. There was no ABS reluctor on the CVs or anything to do with ABS on them as far as I could tell. I don't believe the parts guy. After my experience at Carquest today, I don't trust the ones who just look at the computer at all. I asked for a set of shoes for my runner and the guy said "You mean pads right?" I told him I needed shoes for the rear drum brakes but he just looked at me like I was an idiot because his computer was telling him that the 3rd gens had disc brakes in the rear. He was a good guy though and checked in the book and realized I at least sort of know what I am talking about when he sa w I was right

 

Is there a nice write-up somewhere for doing this job?

 

Yeah, the write-up is here http://www.4x4wire.com/toyota/maintenance/cv_axle/
As far as the cv axle question, I figured they were wrong. I'll be ordering the $79 ones that work just fine for everyone else, thanks guys!

 

yEah the advanced auto store ask me the same question though they stated they ony carry a cv w/o abs for my 99 4runner. anyhow i went to autozone instead because of the life time warranty on the cvs. advnaced auto claimed it was a one time replacment. but there is no differenc between the left or right cv axle(also confirmed by toyota).

 

Does autozone or anyone ever have these instock at the store? If not, what's the waiting time? I'll try to check autozone tomorrow.

 

nevermind, seems like o reilly has the parts i need online, so I'll swing by tomorrow and order, thanks!

 

Really quick question, do I need to drain my diff. before I remove the cv's? thanks!

 

No. There are 6 bolts that hold the inner portion of the CV to the axle shaft. You have a 3rd gen so your outer retainer may be different but all it is on mine is one bolt. I have to remove my manual hubs to get to that one friggin bolt tho....

 

No, but you will drop some once the axle comes out so have a drip pan ready. Personally I always drain it. This would be a good time to swap the fluid though.

That is for the 2nd Gens like yours. His 3rd Gen does not have the same type of axle. There is the one 35mm nut under the dustcap and that's it for the axle itself..

 

Alright guys, so around 2 hours with a little break in there for my first CV install. Just been working on cars for a little over a year(I'm 17), and I have to say even for me, it was really, really, easy. I think my body lift was harder, actually, it was. So for anyone with busted cv's, do not even consider paying someone to do this really simple job for you. Just plan a night at the house, and you can have it done(and get a buddy to stomp on the brakes for you!)