left driveshaft install trouble: 08 3.2 FWD

Post by **ogatrulle** » 05 Feb 2022, 18:40

I began replacing the left driveshaft today on my 08 3.2 FWD.

Slide hammer + FWD driveshaft adapter worked, eventually, for removal. Next time I'll get an extension rod for the slide hammer so I'm not working right next to the wheel.

Now I am having trouble getting the new driveshaft into the transmission. The splines engage just a little, but there is about an inch to go. I can't get a lot of leverage and pushing with my hands just wears me out. I row every day so I'm not a frail guy.

I've tried disengaging the splines, rotating a little, and pushing in again, but so far no go. I'm guessing it's the ring in the groove near the end of the shaft that needs to compress when it gets to the splines.

Is there a trick? How have you guys managed this?

Many thanks!

Capndirk · Post by **Capndirk** » 05 Feb 2022, 19:44

I had a similar experience trying to get it back in past the circlip. What made it happen was just some wheel bearing grease massaged into the ring and land, and a light coating on the splines.. No gobs of excess required.

Post by **Krons** » 05 Feb 2022, 20:14

I used a small amount of grease and if I recall right more speed/momentum than force to push past the circlip.

Post by **ogatrulle** » 07 Feb 2022, 23:13

I tried ATF and then later, grease, but was unable to get the driveshaft into the transmission. I noticed that the clip on the aftermarket driveshaft (DSS) was not shaped like the volvo clip:

: driveshaft-clip.jpg (37.27 KiB) Viewed 1012 times

The volvo clip is circular but sprung open a little.

I put the old volvo clip onto the new driveshaft and I was able to get the driveshaft into the transmission with moderate force.

Post by **abscate** » 09 Feb 2022, 05:07

That clip has to be the exact size and shape of OE to work, that’s where aftermarket stuff often fails.