Good Evening Fellow Listers,

Application is 1987 Syncro Westfalia, 120KMi.

Item #1:
Significant noise from driveline, only when under load or turning while
backing.  There is no noise at any speed when moving forward.  This is a
very solid thunking, and I suspect it is a seizing or failing universal
joint on the driveshaft.  I was under it today, and see no obvious
evidence of a problem.  I was unable to feel any "slop" at either
universal joint.  I would like to know if these symptoms sound familiar
to the group, and get a consensus to the following questions:

    * Is there another diagnostic procedure I should do before removing
      the driveshaft?
    * Are there any special considerations for removing the driveshaft?
    * Are there any items I should definitely replace as a matter of
      course during this process?
    * Should I refrain from driving the Syncro with the driveshaft removed?

Item #2:
I have a turn outer boot on one CV joint on the front axle (the joint is
not yet noisy).  I would appreciate list advise on the following:

    * Is the most cost effective repair to purchase and install a
      replacement (rebuilt) halfshaft?
    * Any list recommendations or tricks for removal / replacement of
      the halfshaft?
    * Any related parts / components I should expect to replace at the
      same time?

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*Best Regards,
Jon B Kanas
Email: kanas@qadas.com <mailto:kanas@qadas.com>
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jonkanas
Longmont, Colorado; Cultural Center of the Universe

Man is the best computer we can put aboard a spacecraft
and the only one that can be mass produced with unskilled labor.
-Wernher von Braun, rocket engineer (1912-1977)

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