Outer CV Joint, Checking: Removing

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

-- Mark the position of the ball hub -3- to ball cage -2- and to housing -1- before disassembling, using an electric engraver or grindstone.

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-- Pivot the ball hub -3- and the ball cage -2- and remove the balls -4- one after the other.

-- Turn the ball cage -2- until the two rectangular windows -arrow- are aligned with the joint housing.

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-- Lift out the cage -2- with the hub -3-.

-- Swing a hub segment in a cage window.

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-- Tilt out the hub -1- from the cage -2-.

CAUTION:

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. Replace joint in such cases.

Flattening and running marks on the balls are no reason to replace a joint.