There has got to be someone out there that knows a shortcut for removing the CV axles without dropping the entire front end out... Just hope they find this post!
thanx

 

Only way i know of removing the cv axles is to undo the ball joints and steering linkage. hw they show in the tear-down manual is the only way i have found to do it. i know its a pain in the ****, but its the only way.

 

I followed the manual, and ya, a total pain in the @$$. Further frustration was when I replaced the frond drive axles. The new ones were a hair (type and location of origin left to the reader) longer than the originals. Pulled my hair out for days. Finally convinced a good mechanic to come by the house. After about an hour we determined the issue. Re-orders where no better. End up having to machine a hair off the front wheel hub flange. We are talking, literally a hair, made the difference. If you run into trouble at re-assebly, have a look for this issue.
Good luck!