Installing DSS Level 3.9 Racing Axles and Hubs

When building a race car, the logic for gaining reliability is simple: keep upgrading the weakest link. With high-powered drag Hondas, as with many other FWD cars, axles tend to be a common item of failure. But thanks to the Drive Shaft Shop, breaking axles doesn’t have to be an issue anymore. DSS offers several levels to choose from, ranging from a stock replacement (level 0) to a pro-level system capable of handling 1000+ horsepower. We chose the Level 3.9 kit, rated to 600HP and backed by a 1-year warranty.

Installing Dss Racing Axles And Hubs Hub

1. The Drive Shaft Shop Level 3.9 axle kit comes with heavy-duty custom hubs and extended ARP racing studs. The hubs feature a larger diameter inner spline which makes them stronger by design and allows the use of a beefier outer CV joint.

2. The first step is installing the new wheel studs. While a hammer can be used, the recommended installation procedure is to press them in.

2. The first step is installing the new wheel studs. While a hammer can be used, the reco
3. Next, you’ll need to press out the stock hub. When doing so, be sure to apply force against the hub and not the bearing.

3. Next, you’ll need to press out the stock hub. When doing so, be sure to apply force ag
3a. The stock hub was removed successfully.

4. These tend to be tight so use an impact screwdriver to avoid rounding the heads.

4. These tend to be tight so use an impact screwdriver to avoid rounding the heads.
4a. With the hub out, remove the three screws that retain the dust shield.

4a. With the hub out, remove the three screws that retain the dust shield.
5. Remove the C-clip.

5a. Now the grease-seal is ready to press out the bearing.
6. Press against the outer race of the bearing to remove it.
6a. It slid out perfectly.

7. In the midst of our rush to finish the car, Robbie decided to powder coat the spindles just to have a pretty part under his ugly car. The team looked at him sideways but didn’t argue.

7. In the midst of our rush to finish the car, Robbie decided to powder coat the spindles
Installation
8. It’s a good idea to apply a light coat of lube before pressing in the new bearings.

Installation 8. It’s a good idea to apply a light coat of lube before pressing in the
9. The DSS kit doesn’t come with new bearings so you’ll have to source them on your own. We got ours from RPM Auto Parts in Costa Mesa, CA. In this image, you can see how we used the old bearing to drive in the new one.

9. The DSS kit doesn’t come with new bearings so you’ll have to source them on your own.

10. Reinstalling the dust shield is optional on a race car (we find that it gets in the way when pressing in the hub). Whatever you do, be sure to reinstall the C-clip.

10. Reinstalling the dust shield is optional on a race car (we find that it gets in the w
11. To install the DSS hub, we flipped the assembly and pressed the spindle onto the hub. When doing so; be sure to push against the inner cone of the bearing to avoid damaging the bearing. Also make sure to keep the two parts in alignment, going in cocked can also damage the bearing.

11. To install the DSS hub, we flipped the assembly and pressed the spindle onto the hub.
12. It’s a good idea to check the backside of the spindle to make sure the bearing has bottomed-out.

12. It’s a good idea to check the backside of the spindle to make sure the bearing has bo

13. Our lower ball joints looked a bit iffy, so we ordered a new set from RPM Auto Parts.

13. Our lower ball joints looked a bit iffy, so we ordered a new set from RPM Auto Parts.
14. Here’s how we used a large C-clamp and a socket to install the ball joints. The second image shows the installation of the retaining clip.

14. Here’s how we used a large C-clamp and a socket to install the ball joints. The secon
14a. We reinstall of the retaining clip.

15. Installing the new axles comes next, followed by slipping the spindles back into place.

15. Installing the new axles comes next, followed by slipping the spindles back into plac
15a. Tighten the nuts for the ball joints and lock everything in with new cotter pins. If you need detailed instructions for these steps, check the factory service manual.

15a. Tighten the nuts for the ball joints and lock everything in with new cotter pins. I
16. The last step is to install the new axle nuts.

HOTBOX
The Drive Shaft Shop 1531 South Main St. Salisbury NC 28144 704-633-2380 www.driveshaftshop.com	RPM Auto Parts 1113 Baker St. #F Costa Mesa CA 92626 714-957-2741 www.rpmautoparts.com