Date:         Tue, 17 Apr 2001 15:05:10 -0600
Reply-To:     Damian Shaw <dts@XMISSION.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Damian Shaw <dts@XMISSION.COM>
Subject:      Re: CV clean & repack questions
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

> Be shure that you purchase new socket head screws to install the new
CVs.

I have some tips on this one.  I've pulled a lot of VW 1/2 axles out of
cars in my time!

My best advice is to (obviously) use the right tool but also before you
go to use it on a new bolt bang on the top of the tool with a hammer.
This will ensure all the 12pts are aligned and 'sharp'.  I often also
tap the 12pt tool into the bolt on the axle before attempting to remove
it.  Then, when removing, I always apply as much inward force as I can
to keep the tool seated and then try turning the bolt.  This is best
done with the box end of a wrench on the 12pt socket.  Or better, one of
the ratcheting box wrenched.  I use one hand on the wrench, and one to
push on the 12 pt tool and keep it at the correct angle.  On FWD VWs I
jam my leg against the tire to prevent the wheel from turning when
loosening the bolt - you can just use the parking brake on a Vanagon to
produce the same effect but then you'll have to constantly set the
brake, loosen a bolt, let go of the brake, turn the axle, set the brake
. . .  The leg against the tire works well (wear coveralls or something
thick!).

I haven't stripped out one of those bolts since I don't know when so I
think my tricks are pretty good ones:  keep the 12pt socket 'sharp' and
keep it aligned and well-seated when using it.  Once you get the bolt
started you should be home-free.

Also, if you do strip one beyond hope you can drill out the head, knock
the head off with a cold-chissel, and then (when the axle is off) turn
the rest of the bolt out by hand.  The trouble may be that you now have
to be able to pull the axle further away from the transmission than you
had planned - which usually means dissassembling more suspension than
you'd like.

Finally, if you have stripped one or two you may have compromised your
12pt tool beyond hope.  Do yourself a favor and buy another one - it's
only $5.00.

Good luck!

Damian
ps - I've never replaced the bolts with new; if you don't strip them you
don't need to.