Club 80-90 Forums

Hello everyone,
I have a 1987 VW Caravelle GL Syncro with 170,000 miles on clock.

Recon VC and refurbished Prop paid for. Due to the age of the vehicle I think it sensible to have my serf (mechanic bloke) to, while undertaking the task, also re-new/replace any other part that you wise-guys/gals recommend.

I know the prop needs 8 nuts and bolts (cos I've seen the holes), but what other nuts/bolts/screws would be required, what sizes, stainless steel? Where I can buy them? etc.

I seem to recall reading something about cv joints (whatever they are) and also something about some r/h driveshafts (whatever they are) and the fact that these items should be re-newed at the same time?

Any advice and guidance would be greatly appreciated.
Couple of other things though:
1/ I love lists.
2/ Functionality of parts read as language from Planet Zog.
3/ LOTUS the Bus and I will be together until death do we part, whichever comes first.

Eric.

hi eric, i too have a rhd gl 2.1 syncro down in cardiff. im a mechanic by trade so if i can be of help then drop me a line. gareth

Check the inner and outer CVs for wear (yes, all ...

at the same time, check the bolts that fasten them to the driveshafts (36)
Good idea to check none are rounded and all maintainable, 2 types cap hex socket screws and 12 point poly cap heads(later), same idea but different tool needed. I like the 12 points, some like the hex (allen screws)

Propshaft bolts from Syncro-Nutz or SyncrosparesUK or VW Commercial Parts counter

Use the correct ones, they are listed in the Wiki (hopefully), bolts about £1 each, locknuts (STOVER) fine thread
New is best because if prop is on/off/on/off a lot then they will stand some rounding off (access can be a bit angled and awkward at times)

Also check the gearbox for slow leaks and drips, partic the transverese casting joints .
In fact, if box history unknown, check oil level;, if dirty not recent maybe drop all oil, and refill to be sure its up to level.

Our website has stuff in there (above r/h logo) as has the club Wiki Goto Syncro

You mention Stainless nuts and bolts. Be very careful where you use these cuz they dont have the same properties as the original steel ones. They look prettier thats all. Depending where you use them, they can stretch and shear long before the proper ones - espically if they are cheap Chinese ones!!

That's true, I use stainless bolts and nuts for the underrun bars (A2 8.8 grade-Ed), but those prop shaft ones are M8 x 1 fine thread and knowing VW, very good quality steel, 10.9 grade at least.

PS. My Doka came to me with the prop off and I was handed 8 old agricultural coarse thread nuts and bolts to put it back on with - think they're helping with the iron content under my blackberries now up on lotty

I was thinking of using A2 SS bolts for the trailing arms.....???

Are the std ones a lot of money then Doug?
Unless they are I would use the VW ones.

£2-20 each?

Stainless bolts are fine for holding on your sump guards and under rails, bumpers and other items that will not compromise the safety of the van. Stainless steel was designed to combat corrosion / temperature and not to be a material used for critical joints. Dont be fooled by Aircraft Cert Stainless / Aluminium either. Its the same stuff but it has a traceability cert, thats all.

syncropaddy wrote: Dont be fooled by Aircraft Cert Stainless / Aluminium either. Its the same stuff but it has a traceability cert, thats all.

Don't qualify your statement with that comment. It's wrong says the man with a lifetimes work as a Chemist, Metallurgist, Accredited QA Auditor .......Say summat like horses for courses or something else please.

Thank you lads for your assistance ---- appreciated.

Regards,

Eric.

The bolts VAG used where M8x1x25 with self-locking (is that what you'd call it? ) nuts - not the vinyl type of course



Ciao,

Martin

syncropaddy wrote:
Dont be fooled by Aircraft Cert Stainless / Aluminium either. Its the same stuff but it has a traceability cert, thats all.

Don't qualify your statement with that comment. It's wrong says the man with a lifetimes work as a Chemist, Metallurgist, Accredited QA Auditor .......Say summat like horses for courses or something else please.

Mick..... you have a PM