Locking Hub - Manual

This procedure covers the removal and installation of a manual locking hub on a 2017 Maserati Levante 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo RWD, typically part of front axle or transfer case service.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Manual locking hub assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Hub seal × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Hub bearing (if replacing) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Snap ring (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Hub mounting bolts × 1 — Use OEM specification
• High-temperature wheel bearing grease × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Raise front of vehicle using appropriate lift points and support securely on jack stands
4. Remove front wheel on the side being serviced using impact wrench or breaker bar
5. Spray penetrating oil on hub assembly bolts if corrosion is present and allow to soak for 10-15 minutes
6. Clean wheel hub area with wire brush to remove dirt and debris

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove brake caliper assembly
   Remove the two caliper mounting bolts and carefully lift the brake caliper off the rotor. Support the caliper with wire or a bungee cord to avoid stressing the brake hose. Do not let the caliper hang by the brake line.
2. 2

   Remove brake rotor
   Remove the rotor set screw (if present) using an impact driver or manual screwdriver. If the rotor is stuck, use two M8x1.25 bolts threaded into the rotor's threaded holes to push it off the hub. Tap gently with a rubber mallet if necessary.
3. 3

   Remove axle nut and washer
   Have an assistant apply the brake pedal or insert a pry bar through the wheel studs to prevent rotation. Use a breaker bar and appropriate socket to remove the axle nut (typically 30-36mm). Remove the washer behind the nut. Note the orientation of any keyed washers for reassembly.
4. 4

   Remove locking hub cover and mechanism
   Remove the locking hub cover bolts (typically 4-6 bolts around the perimeter). Carefully pull the locking hub assembly away from the hub body. If stuck, gently tap around the edges with a rubber mallet. Inspect the O-ring or gasket for damage.
5. 5

   Remove snap ring
   Using snap ring pliers, carefully remove the internal or external snap ring that retains the hub assembly or bearing. Note the orientation and position of the snap ring for correct reinstallation. Inspect the snap ring groove for damage or wear.
6. 6

   Extract hub assembly
   Using a hub puller or slide hammer with appropriate adapters, carefully extract the hub assembly from the spindle. Apply even pressure and avoid cocking the hub to one side. If significant resistance is encountered, apply penetrating oil and allow to soak, then retry.
7. 7

   Inspect and clean mounting surfaces
   Thoroughly clean the spindle, hub mounting surface, and all mating surfaces using a wire brush and degreaser. Inspect the spindle for scoring, wear, or damage. Check the wheel bearing races in the hub (if integral) for pitting or discoloration. Replace bearings if any damage is found.
8. 8

   Install new seal and pack bearings
   Install the new hub seal using a seal driver or appropriate socket, ensuring it seats squarely and fully. If servicing tapered roller bearings, pack them completely with high-temperature wheel bearing grease. Apply a thin layer of grease to the spindle and seal lips.
9. 9

   Install hub assembly
   Carefully slide the hub assembly onto the spindle, ensuring proper alignment with the splines or keyway. Tap gently with a brass drift if needed, being careful not to damage the bearing or seal. The hub should slide on smoothly without excessive force.
10. 10

    Install snap ring
    Install the snap ring in its groove using snap ring pliers. Ensure the snap ring is fully seated in the groove all the way around. Verify the snap ring is correctly oriented per the removal observation.
11. 11

    Install locking hub mechanism
    Apply a thin bead of silicone sealant or install a new O-ring/gasket on the locking hub body. Install the locking hub assembly, ensuring proper alignment of the splines with the axle shaft. Install and hand-tighten all mounting bolts in a star pattern. Since no torque specifications are provided in the database, tighten bolts evenly to manufacturer specifications found in service manual.
12. 12

    Install axle nut
    Install the axle washer (with any keyed orientation correct) and thread on the axle nut. Tighten the axle nut to manufacturer specification while preventing hub rotation. Since no torque specification is provided in the database, refer to service manual for proper torque value (typically 200-250 ft-lbs for this class of vehicle).
13. 13

    Reinstall brake rotor and caliper
    Install the brake rotor onto the hub, ensuring it sits flush. Install rotor set screw if equipped. Reinstall the brake caliper over the rotor and tighten caliper mounting bolts to specification per service manual.
14. 14

    Reinstall wheel and lower vehicle
    Install the wheel and hand-tighten lug nuts in a star pattern. Lower the vehicle until the tire just touches the ground. Torque the lug nuts to 110 ft-lbs in a star pattern. Fully lower the vehicle and remove jack stands.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all fasteners are tightened to proper torque specifications from the service manual
2. Verify the locking hub mechanism operates smoothly between locked and unlocked positions
3. Apply thread locker to appropriate fasteners per manufacturer recommendations
4. Double-check that brake caliper is secure and brake hose is not twisted or kinked

Verification

• Test the locking hub mechanism by rotating the dial or lever through its full range of motion, ensuring positive engagement in both locked and free positions
• Rotate the wheel by hand to verify smooth rotation with no binding or unusual noise
• Start the vehicle and test drive at low speed, verifying proper operation in both 2WD and 4WD modes if applicable
• Check for any fluid leaks around the hub seal after test drive
• Verify no vibration or abnormal sounds from the front end during operation
• Re-torque wheel lug nuts after 50-100 miles of driving

More procedures for this vehicle