Steve Sullivan wrote:
>
> I have some specific questions about replacing CV boots on my '84 Westy that
> I can't figure out from reading my Bentley Manual. . .
>
> 1) Can the axle shaft be removed without removing the wheel bearing housing,
> axle nut, and rear brakes? It looks like I could simply unbolt the inner end
> from the transmission and drop that end of it to the ground.

Yes, but the bearing housing limits the distance the axle will drop, and
I don't think you have enough clearance to remove the joint from that
end, though others may know for sure.  If you are just replacing the
boot get a split boot and you will be done in 30 minutes.  If the joint
is full of crap you should remove it and clean and inspect it.

>
> 2) If I can drop one end of the shaft, or even if I can remove the whole
> shaft, the manual shows the need to press the CV joint off the axle shaft.
> But my axle shaft can easily be pushed back and forth, leading me to think
> that if I can drop the trannie end I can simply slide the joint off, replace
> both boots, slide the joint back on, and bolt the axle shaft back to the
> transmission. Am I wrong?

Ahh, if it were so simple.  The sliding movement you see is in the joint
itself between the inner and outer races, not the axle sliding in the
bearing.
>
> In other words, can I do this job myself? Or do I need special tools (such
> as a joint puller) I have no access to? Heck, I don't even have access to a
> garage to do this in. . .
>
You will need a bench with a bench vise, the correct 12 point socket
screw tool, a pair of circlip pliers or longnose pliers, and a good size
hammer and drift to get reluctant joints off.  Really reluctant joints
may need pressing off.

> 3) The manual shows the joint being held to the axle shaft by a circlip, and
> says you have to press (pull) the joint off using a special tool. If that's
> true, why can I easily slide my axle shaft back and forth with my hand? Or
> does the clip hold the joint not to the axle shaft, but to the thingy that
> bolts to the transmission?

See above.  I recommend you cut off the ripped boot, wipe out as much
old grease as possible, pack in some new grease, and slap on a split
boot until you have a place to work.

> If all this is in the archives, I apologize, I couldn't find it.
>
> Your help appreciated.
>
> Steve

--
Stuart MacMillan
Manager, Case Program
800-909-8244 ext. 8208

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