Driveshaft removal

[FUNKSTER UK]

I should be at the last stage of lifting my engine out tonight and was just wondering if the driveshafts will come out without completely removing the hubs.

It looks like if I remove the shocks from the top mounts and then the suspension arms from the top I may have enough movement to prise them out.

Any Ideas ?

Cheers Mat

[wirestriker]

Yes it is possible, but it is better if someone helps you.
I removed the shock completely (just to have more free space), removed two hex screws holding the top wishbone to the hub carrier then I tilted the hub carrier downward while my mate extracted the driveshaft.
Some strong force is needed to tilt the hub carrier, so it's better to use something to stop the lower wishbone from touching and damaging the undertray, like a jackstand under the shock lower mount.

This procedure works surely for the RH driveshaft, which is the only one I removed a couple of times.
I'm not sure about the LH driveshaft, which is different and being shorter and made in a single piece could not allow all the movements possible with the 2 pieces RH.

But, if you're removing the engine, you could always move the gearbox while lifting and extract both driveshafts.

[andygtt]

just removing the top wishbone from the upright was enough to get the drive shafts out both sides on my car.

[TuxMan]

Couple things to watch Mat , you will need a couple of pry bars or tyre leavers to pop out the passenger drive shaft as it is held in place by a spring clip , also if you have not drain out the gearbox oil be carefull as it can get out of the driveshaft holes . good luck . Simon

[FUNKSTER UK]

Thanks lads, A couple of pry bars it is then.

Just think of me about 7.30 out in the cold pulling on me nob.

Matt