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Subject:Re: Source for reliable axle assemblies
From:Dennis Haynes
Date:Fri, 9 Jan 2015 18:24:35 -0500

Was that axle new or rebuilt? Both aftermarket versions have spotty
longevity. I am a firm believer that parts that fail quickly should be
brought back to the supplier for a number of reasons. The most important
reason is that if they do not have to deal with the returns they will not
know that there are problems to be addressed. Next is getting your money's
worth.

While not the lowest cost option especially with the added labor I try to
push getting new quality CV joints and replacing them as needed.  Over the
years I have also found that it is not always necessary to replace all 4.
Most times clicking joints can be serviced. New grease and a boot kit can do
wonders.

One of the problems with the aftermarket shaft assemblies is that at times
the shaft splines are not the same as the original. So do not throw those
axles out.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
John Seehorn
Sent: Friday, January 9, 2015 2:47 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Source for reliable axle assemblies

I've had some bad luck with NAPA replacement axles for my '83 Vanagon.  One
of them is starting to click after only a couple thousand miles, it's been
about a year since I replaced them and no longer have the receipt so I'm not
interested in any kind of warranty.  What I'd really like is suggestions on
where to buy axle assemblies from those that are happy with their
replacement axles.  At one time Daryl from AA Transaxle made a suggestion,
but I have not been able to find that.
Thanks
John S
Ginger - 1983 Subaru powered Westy with 285k excellent miles