[s-cars] Driveline noise/vibration

[qshipq at aol.com]

 A couple of points to consider...  First, the front portion of the driveshaft on the C4 can be removed for inspection/repack by just removing the exhaust heat shield.  Second, that cv really doesn't 'wear' much even if dry, and doesn't really take much thrust load at all, so the new cv grease acts as a good bushing for even a well worn joint.  I've replaced only a few of these in 20 years of quattro R&R, usually only from observation of a cracked cage.  I suggest that you drop the front driveshaft and repack it with grease and return it to the trans-tail.  Inspect the boot for cracks, and the center bearing for rips, r&r as necessary.  

HTH and my .02

Scott J


-----Original Message-----
From: serge <s6serge at verizon.net>
To: s-car-list at audifans.com
Cc: jim at almgt.com
Sent: Thu, Dec 16, 2010 10:50 am
Subject: Re: [s-cars] Driveline noise/vibration


Jim, the front CV joint on your prop shaft has dried out, and the internal

cage and ball bearings are now metal-to-metal. You will never see this in a

visual inspection. You may be able to disassemble and re-grease, but with

all the work of removing/reinstalling, and the driving around which is

constantly causing wear, you'll want to replace this joint.



Audi does not sell the joint separately, only the complete driveshaft

assembly. Search the archives, there is a Porsche part number for this

application. You will need to remove the exhaust, to get to the prop shaft.

I would take it to a place that can deal with a two piece driveshaft for

balance. You can replace the center bearing if it is worn while you are at

it, but it is not the culprit for the symptoms you describe.



I'm 99% percent certain on this. BTDT.



-Serge 



A history of three 95 S6 Avants

Now 03 S8