Driveshaft removal

[peterbaker]

Okay, is there an easy way of replacing outer d/s rubber boot? If not, how on earth does one undo the hexagonal bolts holding driveshaft in place.

[Richard Fridd]

I normally remove the shafts and replace both rubber gaiters on the bench(outer nut and six allen bolts removed before hand)

[Neil]

I have just replaced my outer cv boots, use an Allen key with a longish handle undo one at a time then turn the wheel and undo the next bolt, best around the 12 o'clock position.

[peterbaker]

Thanks but how do you get the leverage on the Allen key.

[Richard Fridd]

If there is not room for a long lever when directly attatched to the allen socket, an extension could be used to bring the handle someway down the driveshaft where there maybe more room.I expect  this has been tried already (The bolts haven't been glued in have they?) Richard

[Sliding Pillar]

.

[ColinMarr]

The first time I did this job was helping Paul Leclercq, who was the one applying the necessary torque. It was a revelation for me to see the extent to which the Allen key drive distorted before the bolt yielded and started to undo. Make sure the key is a good fit!

Colin

[peterbaker]

I must say, that is exactly what worries me, think I will leave it to an expert. Phone call already made, and thanks for advice everyone.

[Jai Sharma]

I've done this a number of times in the past as per Sliding Pillar's tool in the photo. It helps to leave the car in gear and one wheel on the ground, to fix the hub/stop it rotating. Needless to say use a good quality extension bar and allen key filling on the end of the socket.
I have heard of people using mole grips if one of the allen bolts gets rounded off (or is already rounded off, more likely).

[nistri]

S1 cars have bolts, S2 cars have Allen keys. For bolts use a good quality slim combination spanner, for Allen kyes use a hexagonal bit  fitted to a 1/4 drive Tbar. Turn the tyre instead of turning the spanner/Tbar that locks itself while turning. No major effort is then requiired. Andrea

[davidwheeler]

If it is really tight an impact driver can help.  Just do not hit it too hard, moderate tapping works wonders.

[peterbaker]

Many thanks all. Called in an expert. Its all about having the right tools, such as an extension, plus confidence.