In a message dated 96-03-22 23:40:56 EST, kerch@parc.xerox.com (Berry
Kercheval) writes:

>> You don't need to remove the axle nut to remove the half-shaft when doing 
> > CVJs.  Just remove the six allen bolts at either end of the shaft, and 
> > drop the shaft out.  
>
>This is good to know but I don't think they are Allen bolts.  I haven't
>looked 
>under my Vanagon to be sure, but if it's like my Jetta, they are 8mm 
>"triple-square", with 12-pointed star-shaped holes in the heads. These are
>NOT 
>Torx either, so don't get Torx drivers for them.  I believe they are called 
>"triple-square" because the shape of the hole is like three small squares 
>superimposed to make a star shape.

I just removed one of the rear axles from my 87 Syncro.  It definately had
Allen head bolts.  My 81 Rabbit Pickup had those funny 12 pointed bolt heads
you describe.

Jim Davis