Outer constant velocity (CV) joint, checking

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In order to replace grease in case of strong soiling, joint must be disassembled or if journal surface of balls must be checked for wear and damage.

Disassembling

Fig 1: Identifying Joint Body Marking

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.

Before disassembling mark ball hub position in relation to the ball cage and housing with an electric scriber or oil stone. (see arrow)
Swivel ball hub and ball cage.
Remove balls one after another.

Fig 2: Turning Cage Until Two Cage Windows Rest On Joint Body

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.

Turn cage until two cage windows - arrow - rest on joint body.
Lift out cage together with hub.

Fig 3: Swinging Hub Segment In Cage Window

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.

Swing a hub segment in a cage window.
Tilt hub out of cage.

Checking

6 balls for each joint belong to a tolerance group. Check stub axle, hub, cage and balls for small indentations (pitting) and signs of seizure. Excessive backlash in the joint will cause knocking or jolts under load change. In such cases joint should be replaced. Flattening and running marks of balls are no reason to replace joint.

Assembling

Press quantity of grease into joint body Grease quantity and type (100 mm dia.) or Grease quantity and type (108 mm dia.), grease quantity and type.
Install cage with hub in the joint housing.

NOTE:

Cage must be installed laterally correct.

Press in opposing balls in sequence, during this, previous position of ball hub to ball cage and to joint body must be re-established.