Date:         Sat, 3 Jan 2009 06:41:46 +0000
Reply-To:     mtbiker62@COMCAST.NET
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Bob Stevens <mtbiker62@COMCAST.NET>
Subject:      Re: Removing the axle shafts (was: Towing a Vanagon)
Comments: To: Mark A Kippert <vanagon@KIPPERT.COM>

I sheared off my right rear outer CV and had to remove the 3 bolt ends from the outer hub, reaching into the dark, box section of that trailing arm. Not fun, not easy, but doable. I'm guessing it would be easier to remove the CV by reaching into that trailing arm than it was to put the CV back on? But, that's the drill. The inner is a breeze to remove, but you've probably already done that. Better to be able to use a socket extension with an elbow on it to reach the hex bolts hiding in there. You will need to jack the van up to give you both room to lay under there and work, and to rotate the wheel so the hex bolts are accessible. I think I found that when the bolts were on the bottom they were easiest to reach with the ratchet extension. Use a hex socket.
Your neck muscles will be very sore after you complete this from holding your head up under there. I'd strongly suggest getting some large pieces of cardboard to lay on.
Hope that helps.

bob
'87 Syncro Westy with new CV's and axles


> In looking at the diagram on page 42.2 the axle shaft passes thru the
> boxy portion of the trailing arm. This being the case it doesn't look
> like you can get access to that end of the axle without pulling the
> wheel bearing housing. Is this true (I have not had time to crawl
> under my van to see)?
>
> I'll be laying in a field, under the van, on a cold winter day to do
> this so the less time I spend laying under there the better.
>