Drive Shaft Removal

[jDolan]

Phil replied:

> > Well if you use a puller you risk damaging the wheelbearing..
> > that is why i keep spare axle nuts to use for this purpose...
> > put one half way on... and use this to protect the axle..
> > just hit it with a hammer..
> 
> > HTH!
> 
> It doesn't - it's about as wrong as it could be.
> 
> Audi's service tool is VAG 1389 - it's a hydraulic puller that bolts
> into the hub using the wheel bolts and pushes the stub axle gradually
> out of the hub.  Hammering transfers significant impact loads to the
> wheel bearing - it is these that are damaging, not the gradual
> pressure exerted by the service tool.

I'm curious about this tool. Is it similar to the old "dog-bone" style
hub/drum puller from earlier days? That bolts on, via lug bolts or nuts. Has
anyone ever used one to pull/push Audi axles? I have one, and I've been
wondering whether or not to keep it, now that my P1800 is gone (sob). The
next time I have a wheel off, I'll check. I don't remember the axle stub
having a dimple to act as a center, but a not quite fully placed nut would
serve that purpose. If it does work, JCW sells one, but I don't know of what
quality it is, though it might well be a lot cheaper.

jim   '88 90q  w/ 288K miles
Rochester, Vt.
 Rover P5, 3 Litre Saloon for sale:
http://www.sover.net/~jhdolan/p5%20page.htm
       (going on ebay very soon, with $800 reserve)