I have a '03 AC 400i ... I have the front suspension apart and I am ready to take the outer joint off the shaft.

How the heck does it come off? I do not see any retaining clips, etc. The manual says there is one, but I sure can't find it.

Does the whole shaft have to be removed from the differential? so the everything slides off the inboard side of the shaft?

Anyone have any suggestions? or better yet, good photos?

 

From what I see, it doesn't. I looked up the parts and it shows the axle as on piece with the outer CV joints. My 2001 250 and 2005 400 are that way. The inner is removable so that you can change the boots.

 

i cant remember for sure,but clean all the grease away from the out side of the shaft. i THINK there is an allan bolt where it screws into the end of the shaft holding the joint on, or it slides off(not easily though) maybe have to use a rubber malett. i did this years ago to replace a cv boot. if thats not the answer then im sorry for steering you in the wrong direction and good luck. i dont think its one piece because your picture shows some splines,where there splines, that usually means it just slides on and off. other wise it would be welded or machined together.

 

I got it fixed ....

The whole shaft has to come out, then you must take the inner cv joint apart and replace the boot from the inboard end of the axle shaft. The manual says you need a puller to remove the axle assembly, but it yanked right out with a firm tug by hand.