2 replies to this topic

[mike.]

Currently replacing my CV joints, got the old one off and as well as the little circlip sitting in its groove, there is another big clip on the shaft which gets no mention in the haynes manual and there isn't a replacement big clip in the CV joint kit i've got either.

Photo below:



Is this supposed to be there or should I remove it before fitting the new CV to the driveshaft.

[mike.]

Well both sides have this so I guess its supposed to be there. Just not mentioned or shown on diagrams of the shaft in the haynes.

[tiger99]

The large circlip is absolutely essential, and if damaged must be replaced. It might be dangerous to drive without it, as in extreme cases the end of the shaft might jam the CV, or if the shaft moves too far outboard, the inner pot joint might spit out its balls. The worst possible thing would be a spinning drive shaft thrashing about, hopefully not very common. Usually there is no need to remove it, which is why there is not one in the kit. Just clean and check carefully for damage, spares are available.

The groove for this circlip is obviously at a point on the shaft which transmits torque, unlike the small clip, and causes a stress raiser which results in fatigue fracture of the shaft if the engine is highly tuned and used hard. In there circumstances, a "competition" shaft without the machined groove is used, and a washer is welded on in the correct position instead. Whoever thought that one up probably failed to consider the effects of the welding on the shaft, as I have heard that they also break. Don't try doing it at home, the washer would need to be of the correct steel, and be welded with low hydrogen electrodes, and I think that the driveshaft steel is rather special too.