You can remove the driveshaft, no problem.
It's not realistically possible to remove the front axles since the outboard CV joints form the
wheel spindles and hold the bearings together.  That big axle nut you see on the front is actually
screwed onto the end of the outboard CV joint, if that makes it clear.
If you remove the driveshaft, the front drivetrain is just turning with no load, so I don't think
you'll get much wear on the axles.
-Hans

----- Original Message -----
From: "Karin Baker & Raymond Paquette" <paquette@NETHERE.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Monday, June 06, 2005 12:43 AM
Subject: Synchro to 2wd

> Hey
>
> I'm considering removing the driveshaft and front axles from my Synchro in
> preparation for a long road trip.  I'm traveling with my parent-in-laws, so
> I know we won't be going offroad, so no need for the 4wheel drive.  The
> front CV's are klacking, so I'll be taking them out to replace, and it
> occurs to me to remove the driveshaft, and not put things back together
> until after we return.
>
> I'm hoping for: better gas mileage, more useable power, as well as saving
> the wear and tear on the front drive parts.
>
> Does anyone have any experience with this?  I'm especially concerned about
> damaging something by running my Synchro this way.  Can't imagine that it
> would, but sometimes my imagination is limited.
>
> Thanks
>
> Raymond
>