Date:         Wed, 19 Nov 1997 15:17:16 -0500
Reply-To:     KENWILFY@AOL.COM
Sender:       Vanagon mailing list <Vanagon@Gerry.SDSC.EDU>
From:         KENWILFY@AOL.COM
Subject:      Re: CV Joints[via LSMTP - see www.lsoft.com]

Replacing a CV joint is pretty simple.  It requires a vice to put the axle
 in and something pop the clip off with
 (special tool or screwdrivers).  To remove the CV joint you need to remove
 the whole axle that its
  attached to.  You might need a Torx or stardrive internally wrenching tool
 or
  just an allen wrench (the other two are like an allen wrench but they have
  lots of points instead of being octagon shaped).  I would get a set that
can
  be driven by a rachet.  Then you loosen the bolts all the way around on
both
  ends and voila it's off.  Then put the axle in a vice with the faulty CV
  joint facing up.  Smear off the grease until you can see the locking clip
  that keeps it from sliding off the end of the axle.  Pop the clip off with
  two  screwdrivers opposed to each other or a special tool.  Then put the
  joint right up against the open jaws of the vice.  Now use a brass drift
pin
  and hit the center of the shaft down knocking it onto the floor and the
 joint
  is free.  Check the boots of both sides for wear.  Probably the one that is
  bad the boot is ripped somewhere.  Replace boots as necesary.  Axle will
 have
  a serrated spot 5 or 6 inches away from the end.  The small part of the
boot
  is supposed to fit over this rough spot to keep it from slipping inward.
 If
  the boot is bunched up too tightly it will wear on itself (happened to
mine)
  and the boot will rip and we're back to square one.  Replace CV joint with
  new one.  Tap it back into place using the brass.  Reinstall clip (you can
  use a special tool but I just used a screwdriver).  Pack joint with
Graphite
  CV Axle grease only!  Normal grease will not stick to the joint while it
  spins and the joint will wear out.  Putting axle back on is reverse of
  removal.  Have fun! :-)
  Ken Wilford  John 3:16


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