Tripode CV shaft (axle) - centering on transmission output shaft

**vtraudt** · 08-24-2016 09:41 AM

The OEM design seems to use those little 'spring finger' on the CV shaft to go inside the output flange to center the shaft.

The aftermarket version does not seem to have a 'centering aid'. There is a machine step at the shaft flange, but it is smaller (quite some play) than the output shaft flange step.

If not centered properly, would that not cause vibrations?

http://i1273.photobucket.com/albums/...psuoweaq2d.jpg

**alien_brain** · 08-24-2016 10:47 AM

who thinks an OEM used shaft is better than aftermarket... for this reason and maybe others?

**glennda5id** · 08-24-2016 11:21 AM

I the flanges are centered by the bolts but I have never checked.

**Audi4.2!** · 08-24-2016 11:24 AM

Where did you but the aftermarkets from? I need a pair for my A6.

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**rollerton** · 08-24-2016 11:29 AM

This is a good thing to bring up, and I can see the potential for the problem you're talking about. But consider the amount of play in each CV joint and the range of motion of the axle, the suspension, etc.
However much that small part could possibly be off center I don't think it would cause a very noticeable wobble. After all once it's tightened down with the bolts it's going to be very close to centered. Very Close.
Also, I have used several of those axles- actually two in the last 3 months and have done nothing special to center them and they're in the cars and working perfect, no wobbles or vibrations.
A BAD CV joint though, could definitely do it because it restricts the axles range of motion and can cause it to bind in it's rotation.

**Audi4.2!** · 08-24-2016 12:50 PM

Good input rollerton. And another Q? Is there a way of taking them off with the car already raised? I'm working on my TB and I have the car on jack stands so it would be a huge fuss putting the wheels back on and dropping the car to break the axle bolt loose. If that's the only way then poor planning on my end.

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**G0to60** · 08-24-2016 01:27 PM

Originally Posted by Audi4.2!

Good input rollerton. And another Q? Is there a way of taking them off with the car already raised? I'm working on my TB and I have the car on jack stands so it would be a huge fuss putting the wheels back on and dropping the car to break the axle bolt loose. If that's the only way then poor planning on my end.

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You could have a friend sit in the car and step on the brake pedal. That should keep the axle from turning.

**Jesse_Boyer** · 08-24-2016 01:59 PM

If the brakes won't hold it, you can put a large screwdriver or metal shaft in the vents of the rotor and let it rotate and stop against the caliper. Not my preference, but I'll bet it works.