Drive axles

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 05 Feb 2008, 16:55

I'm so glad that Firefox has spell check built in. Otherwise, JRL would have my neck, especially since I'm an educator.

Post by **tailor** » 05 Feb 2008, 18:08

1)Will automatic transaxles on a 97 850 N/a fit into 1994 850 turbo wagon. Or is it turbo only for turbo and of course automatic transmission for automatic.

I spoke with the parts dept at a Volvo dealership and I was informed ...
1)Turbo models, due to greater torque have higher "spected" drive shafts, I can only assume a stronger drive shaft (axle...

)a slightly thicker shaft to accommodate for the extra torque.
2)They said that I could not use a normally aspirated engine shaft in a turbo because of this reason. Nothing about swapping out axles from different years.
So that puts an end to that line of questioning.

Thanks to all...including JRL

Post by **sseir39** » 05 Feb 2008, 18:59

Just another four letter word.

Dick

Post by **JRL** » 05 Feb 2008, 20:20

sseir39 wrote:Just another four letter word.

Dick

Yes, DICK is another four letter word!

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 05 Feb 2008, 20:23

Ok now, let's be nice and keep it clean....

Back on topic everyone.

Post by **tjts1** » 06 Feb 2008, 09:58

tailor wrote:
1)Will automatic transaxles on a 97 850 N/a fit into 1994 850 turbo wagon. Or is it turbo only for turbo and of course automatic transmission for automatic.
I spoke with the parts dept at a Volvo dealership and I was informed ...
1)Turbo models, due to greater torque have higher "spected" drive shafts, I can only assume a stronger drive shaft (axle... )a slightly thicker shaft to accommodate for the extra torque.
2)They said that I could not use a normally aspirated engine shaft in a turbo because of this reason. Nothing about swapping out axles from different years.
So that puts an end to that line of questioning.

Thanks to all...including JRL

From FCP

All of these axles were made to replace the stock ones on Turbo Vehicles, so if you have a Non Turbo, the axle may appear different at first but it will be the correct one for your vehicle.

http://fcpgroton.com/volvo850driveline.htm#rearbearing

Post by **tailor** » 06 Feb 2008, 21:17

From FCP
Quote:
All of these axles were made to replace the stock ones on Turbo Vehicles, so if you have a Non Turbo, the axle may appear different at first but it will be the correct one for your vehicle.

Tjts1,

Your point and observation is well made, this detail did not go unnoticed by me. BUT they (FCP) clearly could not have known how many broken axles there would be. On top of that, very disappointed and annoyed customers who continually battle the poor quality of these parts and post their frustrations on various forums. To the credit of FCP they appear to send replacement parts to these customers. It does now seem apparent that these axles do not have the strength to withstand the Volvo installation for what ever reason.
Having said all the above, there are some forum members who have had success with these installations. Perhaps a poll of the three axles, the model and year of vehicle they were installed in and whether it was a success or not. Success = no breakage , Failure = breakage
Just to see the success with which particular axle.
I know that the axles are either FEQ, Wohn or DDS, from what I have read only the Wohn has not been mentioned in the breakage's.

With regards to the FEQ axle, it has a 3 staked nut which cannot be "unstaked", I am convinced that if the need arose to replace your hub bearing you will be SOL as I believe the stub axle thread will be toast. You will have to resort to replacing the axle again. I tried to get confirmation or denial on this from FCP, unfortunately they could not enlighten me.

see axle nuts below

http://img120.imageshack.us/my.php?imag ... 051ow9.jpg

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 06 Feb 2008, 22:35

Just a thought...could you not use the better nut rather than that "crimping" type with the axle they send you?

Post by **tjts1** » 07 Feb 2008, 09:52

Tailor
Thanks for the details and info on the axle failures. I haven't had a chance to read about other axle failures until after I ordered this axle from FCP. I wish I found this info earlier. Do you have a link to earlier discussions about this problem? I kind of suspect that FCP has switch from one axle manufacturer to another after repeated complaints. I've always been extremely happy with their customer service even though I know they sell some bum parts like Scantech. I really hope this axle turns out to be a good one. Would it be a good idea to open up the rubber boots on the new axle and check that it has enough grease or?
thanks for your help
Justin

Post by **sseir39** » 07 Feb 2008, 15:41

Don't think it is the grease. Even the boot was good on mine, in fact seemed tougher than the original equipment. The break I had was on a 98 S70 GLT (son had). This car is not driven hard with son being 34 but car is subjeted to home health visits, meaning poor roads.

Can not fault fcp for their service and they do want it to be made right.