Date:         Mon, 22 Nov 1999 18:43:08 -0800
Reply-To:     Don Hundt <dhundt@PCEZ.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Don Hundt <dhundt@PCEZ.COM>
Subject:      cv joint woes?
Comments: To: vanagon@vanagon.com
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1

o.k., so here's the problem: my van (82 diesel, 255,000 miles) is emitting
a clicking noise from the drivers side rear. it doesn't make the noise
constantly, but it has been getting progressively more noticeable. I have
been able to make it go away by grabbing the axle and moving it a bit
(maybe centering it between the joints, I don't really know how that
worked)

Questions: is this a c.v. joint going bad? if so, how long should I expect
before total failure? will total failure leave me stranded? what is a good
price for new joints. I have seen joint kits w/boots for about $50 each, a
rebuilt axle with both joints installled and booted for $135
Is this difficult to replace? will it be noticeably easier if I buy the
complete axle assembly? What tool do I need for the socket head bolts? can
someone give e-mail the basic procedure to me since Bentley is a little
lacking on removal info.
Thanks a bunch,
Don