Loosening and tightening threaded connections of drive shaft

Special tools and workshop equipment required

Socket, 24 mm -T10361A-

Angle wrench -V.A.G 1756 A-

Caution Wheel bearings must not be subjected to load after bolt securing drive shaft to wheel hub has been loosened. If wheel bearings are loaded with weight of vehicle, bearing will be damaged. This reduces the service life of the wheel bearing. It is not permissible to loosen drive shaft bolt more than 90° if vehicle is standing on its wheels. Do not attempt to move the vehicle without the drive shafts fitted as this would damage the wheel bearing. If a vehicle nevertheless has to be moved, comply with the following: Install an outer joint instead of the drive shaft. Tighten outer joint to 120 N·m.

Loosening twelve-point head bolt

• To avoid damage to wheel bearing, do not loosen 12-point bolt using 24 mm socket -T10361A- further than 90° with vehicle still standing on its wheels.
• Raise vehicle so that wheels are off the ground.
• Have second mechanic apply brakes.

• Remove twelve-point head bolt -arrow-.

Tightening twelve-point bolt

• Renew twelve-point bolt for outer end of drive shaft.

• Have second mechanic apply brakes.
• Tighten twelve-point head bolt to 200 N·m.
• Lower vehicle onto its wheels.
• Turn twelve-point head bolt 180° further.