Outer CV Joint, Checking: Removing
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2023 Audi S3, 2023 Audi RS 3, 2023 Audi A3 Quattro, and 2023 Audi A3. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
-- Before disassembling, mark the ball hub position in relation to the ball cage and housing with an electric engraver or sharpening stone -arrow-.
-- Pivot the ball hub -3- and ball cage -2-.
-- Remove the balls -4- one after the other.
-- Turn the ball cage -2- until two cage windows -arrows- rest on joint housing -1-.
-- Pry out the ball cage with the ball hub -3-.
-- Swing a ball hub segment in a cage window.
-- Tilt out the ball hub -1- from the ball cage -2-.
- The balls for each joint belong to one tolerance group. Check the axle stub, ball hub, ball cage and balls for small depressions (pitting) and chafing.
- Excessive backlash in the joint is noticeable by a thump during load alternations. The joint should be replaced in these cases.
TIP:
Flattening and running marks on the balls are no reason to replace a joint.