Outer CV Joint, Checking: Removing

Fig 1: Identifying Joint Body Marking

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, LLC

-- Before disassembling, mark the ball hub position in relation to the ball cage and housing with an electric engraver or sharpening stone -arrow-.

-- Tilt the ball hub and the ball cage and remove the balls one after another.

-- Turn the cage until two cage windows -arrow- rest on joint housing.

Fig 2: Ball Cage Windows Level With Joint Body

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, LLC

-- Lift out cage with hub.

-- Swing a hub segment in a cage window.

Fig 3: Identifying Segment Of Hub Swung Into Cage Window

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, LLC

-- Fold hub out from cage.

• The six balls for each joint belong to a tolerance group. Check the axle stub, hub, cage and balls for small depressions (pitting build-up) and chafing.
• Excessive backlash in the joint is noticeable by a thump during load alternations. The joint should be replaced in these cases.
• Flattening and running marks on the balls are no reason to replace a joint.