gazfish

Hi All,

So my plan today was to replace the transmission mounts and of course after loosening three bolts the fourth one wouldn't budge and I wasted hours trying to shift it. I've ordered a set of flexible extensions so will come back to that job, and I've re tightened the other three again.
I removed the drive shaft from that side to get room to work and the boot was split. On the bench both ends have some twisting movement in the joints, I presume there should be none. Can both ends be rebuilt or should I just replace the whole thing?

Thanks,
Gary

Mrmerlin

if you have front to back play in the CV joint it would be wise to replace the complete shaft.
you can buy new complete shafts they are a bit spendy but you will never have to mess with them again. Best to do both sides
good used parts will also work

gazfish

Thanks for the response, there's a big difference in price between 2nd hand and new but I'm going new rather than taking any risks with an important part like this. It's a shame they didn't stick with the original design where both ends could be rebuilt at a fraction of the cost.

Mrmerlin

I put a new set on my 88 S4 and the back end got quiet,
and I wont hafta mess with them

GlenL

These wear, as everything does, but I'm not sure that's a problem. The usual measure is if you hear them in operation. I'd be curious how the play in brand new axles comapres to what you found with these.

FredR

Replace the CV boots regularly before they split and inspect annually for any unforeseen damage. Look after them and they will last forever [almost]. Once water and road grime get in there and form a grinding paste that will be the end of line in no time I suspect unless you are in a dry climate like mine [that description does not fit Dubline I suspect].

gazfish

Managed to get the stuck transmission bolt loose but damaged the fuel line in the process somehow and now fuel is dripping constantly. I think this is the fuel return line so expected it to stop once the pipe was empty. Any suggestions, can I replace this section with a joint or a new fuel line required?
One step forward and two back at the moment This leads to the top of the tank, assume it's the low pressure return line ?

​​​​

gazfish

Fuel finally stops p*ssing out, in the short term I'm going to cut that section out and replace with rubber fuel hose.
I got the new shaft today Glen and there is zero play in the joints, they're stiff to bend and stay in the position you bend them to. Massive difference from the old ones.
I was looking forward to feeling the difference on a drive but it'll have to wait for now

GlenL

Interesting. Thanks for posting!

Mrmerlin

yep thats what new parts do you may notice the car will run quieter in the rear