Inner constant velocity joint, checking: Removing

Fig 1: Pressing Out Ball Joint Housing

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.

Swivel ball hub and ball cage.
Press out ball joint housing in direction of arrow.
Press balls out of cage.

NOTE:

The ball hub and joint are paired. Must not be interchanged.

Fig 2: Tilting Ball Hub Out Of Ball Cage Over Ball Track

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.

Tilt ball hub out of ball cage over ball track - arrow -.
Check joint housing, ball hub, ball cage and balls for indentations (pitting) and signs of seizure.

Excessive backlash in joint will be noticed as a knock during load changes. In such cases the joint must be replaced. Polished areas and ball track marks are not a reason for replacing joint.