Rear Flexible Coupling

Rear flexible coupling, removing and installing
A twin pillar lifting platform should be used when working on the driveshaft.

Notes:
^ Before removing, mark the positions of all parts in relation to each other. Reinstall in the same position otherwise imbalance will be excessive and the bearings could be damaged, which could cause rumbling noises.
^ Keep driveshaft straight, only store and transport fully extended.

Special tools and workshop equipment required





- Engine/transmission jack VAG1383 A

Removing





- Remove noise insulation in the center (arrows).





- Loosen clamp (arrows) on exhaust system and disconnect exhaust pipe.
- Unbolt rear right exhaust bracket. - Detach exhaust from brackets.





- Remove cover panel for fuel tank (at rear right) (arrows).





- Unbolt catalytic converters from front exhaust pipe (arrows).

Notes: Do not bend the flexible joint (decoupling element) in the exhaust system more than 10, otherwise it could be damaged.

- If fitted, unbolt exhaust mounting from subframe.





- Unbolt center heat shield and exhaust bracket (arrows).





- Unbolt driveshaft from flexible coupling (only one of the three bolts is visible here (arrow))





- Then unbolt flexible coupling from rear final drive (arrows).





- Support the rear driveshaft tube behind the center bearing using a wooden block -1- and engine/transmission jack V.A.G 1383 A.

Notes:
^ Secure the driveshaft with a strap to prevent it from dropping.
^ Keep driveshaft straight, only store and transport fully extended.





- Detach pendulum support from subframe (arrows - A -).





- Unbolt center driveshaft bearing from body.

Notes: Do not damage the seal (arrow) in the driveshaft flange when removing and installing. The driveshaft must be replaced if the seal is damaged.





- Press engine/transmission forward carefully.
- Then push the rear driveshaft tube forward just far enough to allow the flexible coupling to be removed.

Installing
Installation is carried out in the reverse order, when doing this note the following:
^ All parts of the driveshaft marked must be reinstalled in the same positions in relation to each other.
Installation position:
^ The three projecting sleeves on the rear final drive flange and driveshaft flange engage in the mounting holes in the flexible coupling.





Notes:
^ Do not damage the seal (arrow) in the driveshaft flange when removing and installing. If this seal is damaged the driveshaft must be replaced.
^ Ensure driveshaft is horizontal when pushing onto guide pin.
- Align the center bearing in the elongated holes so that the driveshaft and the center bearing are not under stress.
- Tighten bolts securing center bearing to body after driveshaft has been installed.





- Align exhaust system free of stress.





Tightening torques