[Vwdiesel] HELP - WHEEL FELL OFF !!!

[Rolf Pechukas]

circlip was not found, nor was tip of stubby axle
I agree, for shaft to pull out and remain intact, circlip must have  
been sheared in half (which is what I think happened)
4000 lbs of vehicle suddenly lurching to the side and ripping axle  
out of tranny is a LOT of force instantaneously applied
think of a fat lady stumbling in high heels

anyway, tranny case has not been split
shop looked in all three holes, apparently bought a special magnet  
just for the search, but found nothing (how is that possible??)

anyway, we will do another fluid change today, I will filter the oil  
and see what shows up

then I drive 400 miles over the weekend and do another change

will report anything interesting
thanks for all the feedback
-- 
Rolf in MA