replacing a drive axle on 94 Impreza

[nicks]

Hi there - I'm new so I apologize if I commit any USMB faux pas. I am going to replace the passenger side drive axle on my 94 Impreza (FWD, 1.8L, 5spd). The upper boot has a small hole that is spraying grease out in a neat pattern, and the lower boot is shredded. My mechanical experience is limited, but my older brother (who is helping me) has loads working on race cars and pickups, but none on FWD imports. I have a Chiltons, but it covers 10 years worth of Subs and multiple models, so I'm not sure its gonna be enough help. Any basic instructions, advice, no-nos, tips, insights, etc. would be great. Thanks ahead of time.

[Legacy777]

It's pretty straight forward. Loosen the axle nut with the car still on the ground. Don't remove it, you don't want to put weight on the bearing with that removed. Jack up the car, loosen the sway bar end links from the front A-arm, loosen the front bolt that holds the A-arm to the front crossmember. This should give you enough room to remove the axle. Remove the spring pin from the axle. Make sure to drive the spring pin out the chamfered end. ie, put the punch in the non-chamfered end. Drive it back in the chamfered end. Once the spring pin is out, just wiggle the axle out, and put the new one in.

[SUBARU3]

I just loosen the bolt and pop out the lower ball joint. One bolt. A bit easier and it still gives plenty of room to get the axle in.

[Legacy777]

I tried the ball joint and it wouldn't budge....that's why I used the method I mentioned. I just replaced the ball joints....so if I should have to get the axles out, I can probably use the ball joint method.

[SUBARU3]

I use a galvanized fence post to obtain leverage. Place all the way under the car and then press down. Place a pices of cardboard between the post and the undercoating.