CV Joint Fault Diagnosis

[MAS956]

After having the engine out of my 82 sc for the last two years, I finally got it all buttoned up last night and took it for a spin.

What I heard was the unmistakeable clackety clack of bad CV joint(s). I must admit that I didn't tie up the axles as suggested while the engine was out. That may be the problem, but now I need to figure out which one or ones is bad.

Question: How can I determine which joint is bad? Is it safe to start the car and put in gear on jackstands? Any other BTDTs much appreciated!

[pbs911]

Don't run the car on jack stands! Think of what would happen if you are under there and the car comes off the stands at 5,000 rpms in 1st gear!

To check the CVs grab the axle with the e-brake on and see if you can rotate the axle back and forth in the direction it would turn (towards the front of the car and towards the rear). If there is play the CV''s on that axle are the likely cuplrit. Movement from side to side is normal and necessary. It is also recommended that corresponding CV's be replaced at the same time (i.e. both inner or both outer).

You may want to check the CV bolts to ensure they are correctly torqued down. It is not uncommon for these bolts to back out. If you replace a CV, pick up some new bolts. Pelican has them. They tend to strech from torquing. A lose CV bolt will eventually lead to the bolt shearing. I know this from experience.

[MAS956]

Paul,

Thanks for the suggestions. Will I be able to figure out inner/outer bad with this process? I know those bolts stretch so will replace.

Thanks,