Difficult CV Axle installation

Hi all,

I'm installing a drive axle for the first time in my '88 Acura Legend.
I can easily engage the splines of the inboard end of the axle into
the transaxle, but I can't get it to seat the last 3/4" or so to
engage the locking clip. Everything I see says don't hammer on these
things, but pushing as hard as I can, I can't make it go. Sorry for
the stupid question, but what is the trick here?

Thanks,
Ryan

 

The trick is to make sure the circlip is not bent and to keep it centered by
using grease. If it hangs down it will snag and be difficult to get in. Some
hammering may still be required, but we are not talking about using a 4
pound sledge here. A plastic dead blow mallet swung mildly will not hurt the
joint.

 

Kevin's right on the money in my opinion. You might also want to check the
splines and dress them up with a file as necessary. I was unsure if one
of my axles was seated so I put a hose clamp on the inboard part of the
axle and tapped the hose clamp. It would not move at all for me so I
gather mine was seated. I should have looked at that gap before I removed
the passanger side axle. Live and learn. Good luck.

 

Is the clip positioned so the opening is at the bottom?

 

Thanks for the tips - I bet the circlip isn't positioned in the best
way. If I want to try and tap the joint together with a rubber mallet,
would it be OK to lightly strike the spindle end of the axle? It seems
like it would be very tricky to try and strike the inner joint itself.

-Ryan

 

hold the axel straight and strike the end..it's a little tricky...make
sure you're already aplying pressure on it before you strike it, by
pushing the axel in