Locking Hub - Auto

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the automatic locking hub assembly on a 2017 Maserati Levante 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo RWD, including wheel removal, hub disassembly, and component replacement.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Automatic locking hub assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Hub lock ring or retaining clip × 1 — Included with hub or order separately
• Axle nut (if not reusable) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Hub seal × 1 — Use OEM specification
• O-ring or gasket for hub assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Chock front wheels securely
3. Loosen rear wheel lug nuts while vehicle is on ground (do not remove)
4. Lift rear of vehicle and secure on jack stands at manufacturer-recommended lift points
5. Remove rear wheel completely
6. Clean the hub area thoroughly with brake cleaner and wire brush to remove debris

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove brake caliper and rotor
   Remove the brake caliper mounting bolts and hang the caliper from the suspension using a wire or bungee cord to avoid stressing the brake line. Remove the brake rotor by pulling it off the hub studs. If stuck, use plastic mallet to tap around the edge.
2. 2

   Remove axle nut
   Using a breaker bar and appropriate axle nut socket (typically 36mm), remove the center axle nut. This nut is torqued to high specification and may require significant force. Have an assistant apply the brakes or use a pry bar against the wheel studs to prevent rotation. Note the condition of the nut - if it has a deformed collar or is a torque-to-yield type, it must be replaced.
3. 3

   Disconnect ABS sensor
   Locate the ABS wheel speed sensor connector near the hub assembly. Press the release tab and disconnect the electrical connector. Remove any mounting clips or brackets securing the sensor wire to prevent damage during hub removal.
4. 4

   Remove hub retaining hardware
   Identify and remove the hub retaining mechanism. This may be a lock ring, snap ring, or series of bolts connecting the locking hub to the axle flange. Use appropriate snap ring pliers or sockets depending on the design. Keep all hardware organized for inspection and potential reuse.
5. 5

   Extract the locking hub assembly
   Using a hub puller or slide hammer attached to the hub studs, carefully extract the automatic locking hub assembly from the axle. Apply steady, even pressure. If the hub is severely seized, apply penetrating oil and allow to soak for 15-30 minutes before attempting again. Inspect the axle splines for damage once hub is removed.
6. 6

   Remove and inspect hub seal and bearings
   Carefully pry out the hub seal using a seal puller or pry bar. Inspect the bearing surfaces within the hub bore and on the axle. Check for pitting, scoring, or discoloration indicating overheating. Clean all bearing surfaces thoroughly with brake cleaner and lint-free cloth.
7. 7

   Inspect axle splines and sealing surfaces
   Thoroughly clean the axle shaft splines with wire brush and brake cleaner. Inspect for wear, cracks, or damage. Check the seal mating surface on the axle for scoring or grooves. Minor imperfections can be smoothed with fine emery cloth. Measure hub bore and axle shaft dimensions if excessive wear is suspected.
8. 8

   Install new hub seal
   Pack the new seal lip with high-temperature bearing grease. Using a bearing race driver or appropriately sized socket, carefully drive the new seal into the hub bore until fully seated. Ensure the seal is installed squarely and to the proper depth (flush or slightly recessed per OEM specification).
9. 9

   Prepare new locking hub assembly
   Unpack the new automatic locking hub assembly and verify it matches the original. Install any included O-rings or gaskets using a thin film of grease to hold in position. Apply high-temperature bearing grease to the hub splines and internal mechanism as specified by the manufacturer.
10. 10

    Install locking hub assembly
    Align the splines of the new hub assembly with the axle shaft splines. Carefully slide the hub onto the axle, rotating slightly to engage the splines. Push firmly until the hub is fully seated against the backing plate or mounting surface. Ensure the hub sits flush and the splines are fully engaged.
11. 11

    Install hub retaining hardware
    Install the hub lock ring, snap ring, or mounting bolts as applicable. If using a lock ring, ensure it is fully seated in its groove. If using bolts, apply medium-strength thread locker and tighten in a star pattern. Verify the hub has minimal axial play but rotates freely.
12. 12

    Install and torque axle nut
    Install the axle nut (new if required) onto the axle shaft. Torque to manufacturer specification using a calibrated torque wrench. Since torque specification is not provided in database, refer to factory service manual for exact value (typically 150-250 ft-lbs for this application). If the nut design requires staking or cotter pin installation, complete this step.
13. 13

    Check hub assembly endplay
    Mount a dial indicator against the hub face. Apply push-pull force to check axial endplay. Endplay should be minimal (typically 0.001-0.005 inches). Excessive play indicates improper installation or damaged components. Rotate the hub by hand to ensure smooth operation with no binding.
14. 14

    Reconnect ABS sensor and reinstall brake components
    Reconnect the ABS wheel speed sensor electrical connector and secure the wiring with any clips or brackets. Reinstall the brake rotor onto the hub studs. Remount the brake caliper and secure with mounting bolts. Ensure brake caliper slides move freely.
15. 15

    Reinstall wheel and lower vehicle
    Install the wheel onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern. Lower the vehicle until the tire just contacts the ground. Torque the lug nuts to manufacturer specification in a star pattern (refer to factory service manual for exact value). Lower vehicle completely and remove jack stands.

Reassembly

1. Double-check that all fasteners are properly torqued and that no tools or parts were left in the work area
2. Verify the axle nut is secured properly with staking or cotter pin if applicable
3. Ensure the ABS sensor connector is fully seated and wiring is secured away from rotating components
4. Pump the brake pedal several times to re-seat the brake pads before moving the vehicle

Verification

• Test drive the vehicle at low speed and verify no unusual noises from the hub area
• Check for proper engagement of the automatic locking hub (no clicking or grinding during operation)
• Verify ABS system is functioning without warning lights (scan for codes if ABS light is illuminated)
• After 50-100 miles, re-torque the wheel lug nuts and inspect the hub area for any leaks or looseness
• Confirm smooth rotation without vibration or binding during turns and straight-line driving

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