Date:         Thu, 22 Jun 2006 13:19:42 -0700
Reply-To:     Ed Wiebe <wiebeis@SHAW.CA>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Ed Wiebe <wiebeis@SHAW.CA>
Subject:      CV Joint/Manual Transmission Question
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"

Hearing the clunk-clunk from the back of the van, I diagnosed that new CV joints were needed. I installed all new joints. The old ones actually probably were still in pretty good shape. The clunking(not loud but present) is still there and after checking/removing/reinstalling, I am convinced the CVs are OK.
What I am finding is there is a little bit of play in the drive axle. There is movement in and out straight through. That is, if I push on the right side the left side moves in tandem.
My question is: Do I have a problem with the Drive Train/Differential set up inside the gear box? Is this something that needs immediate attention?
We, my wife and I have big travel plans for August and September, so I guess I need to resolve this. For peace of mind if nothing else.
Thanks in advance.

Ed Wiebe
1990 Westie Manual 4 speed 2.1 L engine