My B5 S4 passenger side CV boot was torn so I replaced the whole CV Axle assembly....

Got everything buttoned up, backed out of the driveway, shifted to 1st gear and then... nothing.

I'm hearing a griding noise like something isn't seated correctly or something.

Has anyone had experience with this?


{{{{{{Partsgeek sent me the wrong axle so I had the local Advance get me one, fit together well and everything lined up, if i get 20,000 miles out of it I'll consider it a victory.))))

 

It's just occurred to me that I spun the PS side (to make for accessing the bolts I needed to tighten easier) while the Driver's side was still on the ground. Perhaps this is the culprit?

 

Remove the road wheel again and check to see if the six XZN bolts for the axle are all correctly installed and tight. It may be easier for you if someone holds the axle in place by stepping on the brakes while you tighten the bolts.

The correct tool is an XZN-style long reach 8mm, which will clear the CV boot without damage.

 

Well god dammit. This axle is also the wrong one. We realized the splines that go into the spindle are too small so what was happening is it would freee spin and back the axle bolt out and boom no power.

Apparently Advance Auto likes to sell A4 axles in place of S4 axles. I've discovered a trend of this simply after googling the part number plus "S4."

Two wrong axles thus far and $150 in.

Does anyone know a RELIABLE source that I can quickly get the proper part?!


thanks

 

Have you tried taking the original axle to a shop that can refurbish it for you? I have found that to be the best assurance that the correct parts are used.

 

I ended up taking the first wrong one, putting it on a vice and beating the **** out of it it get it apart and get the boot off of it. Swapped that boot for the torn one and re-installed the original. Problem solved.

For the record - that thing took some serious abuse!