how to change a 1998 micra cv joint?

Nearside one is the easier to do especially if you don't have a pit or garage lift.
Assuming it is outer cv joint rather than inner joint.
(1) Before jacking up vehicle, remove split pin from end of driveshaft (castellated nut arrangement). Loosen driveshaft nut - 27 mm socket I think. Next loosen wheel nuts.
(2) Jack up vehicle and support on pair of axle stands (handbrake on, wheels chocked).
(3) Remove wheel.
(4) Drain gearbox oil (otherwise oil will escape when driveshaft is removed).
(5) Remove brake caliper from hub (2 bolts) and suspend caliper by twine from coil spring or shock absorber.
(6) Remove split plin from steering arm/track rod ball joint. Unscrew nut on track rod end. Separate ball joint using the appropriate ball joint separator (either a fork tool which is struck or a pivoted fork with a screw to apply the force).
(6) Remove hub carrier to suspension strut bolts and remove driveshaft nut and thrustwasher if not already done.
(7) Pull hub outwards and driveshaft should slip out of rear of hub - support while doing so.
(8) Use a prybar or large screwdriver to (gently) prise the inboard end of the driveshaft out of the gearbox.

Now you work on the driveshaft in the workshop. Only the outboard cv joint can be replaced. Cut the clips holding the rubber gaiter in place. New ones will be needed. A new cv joint boot/gaiter is a good idea and the kit includes clips and grease. Mark the cv joint and shafts to maintain the correct relationship.
Various spring clips to be removed (potentially dangerous - wear eye protection). Drift the cv joint off the splined shaft using a soft metal drift on the cage.
Fit new outer cv joint and boot and pack with grease supplied. Fit the retaining clips (which you should have slid on over the shaft ends before you fitted boot!)

Back to vehicle. Check driveshaft oil seal for wear/damage and replace if necessary. A large socket (possible a 30 or 32 mm) is ideal for tapping this into position if required without damaging it.
Refit driveshaft taking care not to damage the oil seal.
Refit all previously dismantled components in reverse order and tighten bolts to correct torques.
Refill gear box (done from above - you need to remove the speedometer drive -small hex head screw in flange).
Bolt Torques:
Driveshaft nut - 177 Nm.
Track rod/steering arm nut 34 Nm.
Wheel nuts 108 Nm.
Hub carrier to suspension strut nuts & bolts 118 Nm.
Caliper mounting bolts 59 Nm.
Warning:
This could be a difficult and frustrating job if you don't have the proper tools and other facilities!!

JD
December 2008