84 4ksq Axle? Put Another Way

[gwbutler]

Hello again all,

I'm having significant difficulty replacing the right-front axle on my 84 4ksq.  Is it absolutely necessary to use the locking plates (431 407 357)on the boot caps for rebuilt axles?  I can't find a re-built with a flat [boot] cap and the lock plates simply ride up un the raised sections of the cap.  I won't experiment with trying to tourque down the bolts...it just won't work.  Does Audi/VW sell any "newer" lock plates that actually fit over the raised sections on the boot cap?  I'm really at wits end here folks.

TIA for you input...

Regards,

George B.
Massachusetts