Hi Steve,

Are you sure you have the large and small grooves lined up properly? The joint shouldn't bind at all. I know I did it wrong the first time and the joint would lock solid.

I have pictures at http://volksweb.relitech.com/cvjoints.htm that should help.

TomC tcarrington@relitech.com http://www.relitech.com/tomc http://volksweb.relitech.com 85 Vanagon Crew Cab 82 Westy diesel=>gas conversion 65 Notchback

> -----Original Message----- > From: Steve Sullivan [SMTP:Steve@NORTHWESTWATCH.ORG] > Sent: Monday, February 28, 2000 12:55 PM > To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM > Subject: CV joint binding > > Well, I really tore into my van this weekend. Removed the CV joints to > re-grease them and replace the torn boots. > > As I reassemble the joints, I'm having some trouble. Three out of four > joints reassemble just fine, and move normally without binding. The fourth > binds when you try to move the inner race/hub in and out (along the > driveshaft axis), which Bentley says is how to check for proper assembly. > > I am 100% positive this joint is assembled correctly (I even tried every > combination of assembly possible, as far as which side of the inner > race/hub > and the bearing ring-holder thingy is out). But it always binds. The only > difference I notice is that this joint is less worn than the other three > (which are pitted and need replacing-later, I'm broke). > > My question: since I don't have a new joint to compare it to, is a little > binding (I can move it back and forth with my fingers, it just gets hung > up) > normal in a new joint? On the other three joints, the inner race/hub moves > in and out smoothly with no pressure needed. > > How much binding is normal? I don't want to put this one joint back in and > have it ruin the transmission or something serious. > > Thanks! > > Steve > One 84 vanagon camper in many pieces on the garage floor . . .