Twelve-Point Bolt without Ribs, Loosening and Tightening, Driveshaft Threaded Connection

Twelve-Point Bolt without Ribs, Loosening and Tightening, Driveshaft Threaded Connection

Special tools, testers and auxiliary items required

• Socket XZN 24 (T10361)






• Angle wrench (V.A.G 1756)






Differences between a twelve-point bolt with ribs and a twelve-point bolt without ribs






The contact surfaces - arrow A - and - arrow B - are different on the two-point bolts.

I Twelve-Point Bolt with Ribs - arrow A -
II Twelve-Point Bolt without Ribs - arrow B -

The wheel bearing must not be under a load while the driveshaft threaded connection on the wheel side is loose.

If the wheel bearings are under the load of the vehicle weight, the wheel bearing will be damaged. This reduces the service life of the wheel bearings.

The driveshaft bolt may be loosened maximum 90° when the vehicle is standing on its wheels.

Vehicles without a driveshaft must not be moved, otherwise the wheel bearing will be damaged. If a vehicle must be moved, be sure to note the following:

• Install an outer joint in place of the driveshaft.

• Tighten the outer joint to 120 Nm.

Loosening the 12-point bolt

- With vehicle still resting on wheels, loosen 12-point bolt with Socket AF 24 (T10361) maximum 90°, otherwise, wheel bearing will be damaged.

- Raise vehicle enough that wheels hang freely.

- Operate brake (second mechanic required).

- Remove 12-point bolt - arrow -.






12-point bolt, fastening

- Replace 12-point bolt.

• Wheels must not yet touch the ground to tighten the drive axle, wheel bearing may otherwise be damaged.

- Operate brake (second mechanic required).

- Tighten 12-point bolt to 200 Nm.

- Lower the vehicle onto its wheels.

- Tighten 12-point bolt an additional 180°.