David Marshall wrote:

> Stephen,
> First off.. you don't need to remove that big nut to take the rear axel out.
> The inner and outer CVs are the same thing and you just need to remove the
> Allen bolts on both sides and it comes right out.
>
> Tools you will need.  Allen key/socket, snap ring pliers, latex gloves, dull
> side cutters and a mallet.

More recent CV joints have bolts with a 12 pointed star socket end (instead of
the older allen bolts). You may need a special tool to remove the bolts.

> Personally I would count on replacing all four at the same time as once you
> get them apart you will see that they are scuffed up already.

Only by disassembling the cv joint can you get a true picture of the amount of
wear. I found two with real disasters waiting to happen.

> One thing you
> can do to prolong everything is install them "backwards" so they start
> wearing on the other side... this will give you a little more time only if
> they aren't clicking already.

I got two extra years by swapping left for right. Simply swapping end for end
but leaving them on the same side will accomplish nothing. You need to reverse
the direction of torque on the cv joints (as David said "backwards").
-Larry
'86 Syncro Westfalia
'86 Syncro Doublecab