1997 Toyota RAV4 CV Axle and seal replacement (FULL DIY + What Went Wrong!)
Marcos Home Garage · 744 views · 32:26
Skill Level
IntermediateTime Required
Half dayEstimated Cost
$50–200Equipment
Toyota RAV4Tools Needed
Jack, Jack stands, Socket set, Wrench set, Pry bar, CV axle puller, Seal removal toolWatch the full CV axle & seal series here: https://studio.youtube.com/playlist/PLtqQN4LJ9NAmjKJpSguEuvvRwL2q1i841/videos
Replacing a CV axle seal on my 1997 Toyota RAV4 turned into WAY more of a battle than I expected… but we got it DONE 💪
In this video, I walk you through the full process of removing and reinstalling a CV axle on a first gen RAV4, including the exact steps I used, the mistakes I made, and the tricks that finally worked.
🔧 What I cover:
Removing a stuck CV axle
Tools that actually help (and what didn’t)
Inspecting the circlip & axle fitment
Installing the new axle correctly
Reassembly + torque specs
Real-world troubleshooting tips
⚠️ Torque Specs Used:
Axle Nut: 160 ft-lbs
Lower Control Arm Bolts: 95 ft-lbs
Sway Bar End Link : 47 ft-lbs
🛠️ Tools & Parts (affiliate links coming soon):
Driver side CV Axle - Rock Auto GSP - coming soon
Torque Wrench - https://amzn.to/4lTP9pP
Seal + Grease
Toyota Part Numbers
Passenger side seal - 90311-47003
Driver side seal - 90311-44003 - coming soon
O-Ring - 90301-26006
If you’re working on a RAV4, Tacoma, or similar Toyota drivetrain — a lot of this applies to you.
👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more real DIY repairs from my garage.
📺 Channel: Marcos Home Garage