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.

Removing

Fig 1: Ball Hub And Ball Cage Swiveled

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.

Before disassembling mark ball hub position in relation to ball cage and housing using an electric scriber or oil stone.
Swivel ball hub and ball cage.
Remove balls one after another.

Fig 2: Two Rectangular Windows Aligned With Joint Housing

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.

Turn cage, until two rectangular windows - arrow - contact joint body.
Lift out cage together with hub.

Fig 3: Tilting Hub Out Of Cage

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.

Swing segment of hub into rectangular window of cage.
Tilt hub out of cage.

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.

Installing

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