CV Joints – General Information and Maintenance – 2.5L NA

Overview

This guide provides general information and maintenance procedures for the Constant Velocity (CV) Joints on the rear axles of all Porsche 944 variants with an 8-valve engine configuration, covering model years 1983–1985.5 (Pre-85.5) and 1986–1988 (85.5 Onwards). CV Joints are critical drivetrain components that transfer power from the transaxle to the wheels while allowing for suspension movement. Regular maintenance is essential to prevent wear, noise, or failure, often indicated by a clicking sound from the rear during driving or turning. Proper care can extend the life of CV Joints, often requiring only cleaning and repacking with grease.

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Tools Required

• Solvent (mineral spirits or brake cleaner)
• Rags
• Power washer or brush (optional, for cleaning grease-caked components)

Parts Required

• CV Joint grease (Moly-based)
• CV Joint Kit (944 331 901 00, if replacing damaged CV Joint)
• Boot Kit (944 331 903 00, if replacing damaged boot)

General Information

• CV Joints require regular maintenance as part of routine checks to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
• A clicking noise from the rear, especially during turns or normal driving, typically indicates a worn or dry CV Joint. This noise is often more pronounced on the outside rear axle during turns.
• Many CV Joint issues can be resolved by removing the axle, cleaning the CV Joint, and repacking it with Moly-based grease, even if the boot (944 331 903 00) is intact.
• Grease in CV Joints may deplete over time, even with undamaged boots, requiring periodic repacking.
• If a CV Joint is damaged, options include:Replacing the CV Joint with a new kit (944 331 901 00).

  Replacing the entire axle assembly (477 501 103 for Pre-85.5 manual, 477 501 101A/477 501 102A for Pre-85.5 automatic, 944 332 038 01 for 85.5 Onwards manual, 944 332 038 02/944 332 038 03 for 85.5 Onwards automatic).

  Replacing only the boot with a Boot Kit (944 331 903 00) if the joint is intact but the boot is damaged.

  Step-by-Step Maintenance Procedure

  Step 1: Inspect CV Joints

  1. Listen for clicking noises from the rear of the vehicle during driving or turning, indicating potential CV Joint issues.
  2. Raise the rear of the vehicle using a jack and secure it on jack stands to inspect the CV Joints visually.
  3. Check the CV Joint boots (944 331 903 00) for rips, tears, or wear. Replace with a Boot Kit if damaged.

  Step 2: Clean CV Joint Components

  4. If grease is caked on the CV Joint, axle, or bolts, use a power washer or a brush with solvent (mineral spirits or brake cleaner) to clean the components thoroughly.
  5. Wipe down all CV Joint parts with rags to remove any remaining grease or debris.

  Step 3: Evaluate CV Joint Condition

  6. Inspect the CV Joint components (inner race, outer race, ball bearings, and splines) for signs of excessive wear, cracking, or damage.
  7. If any component shows significant wear or damage, replace the entire CV Joint with a CV Joint Kit (944 331 901 00).

  Step 4: Repack CV Joint (If Reusable)

  8. If the CV Joint is in good condition, repack it with Moly-based CV Joint grease to restore lubrication.
  9. Follow the CV Joints Installation procedure to reassemble and install the CV Joint after repacking.

  Step 5: Test Vehicle

  10. After maintenance, lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
  11. Test drive the vehicle slowly, gradually increasing speed, and listen for any unusual noises or vibrations from the rear axles to confirm successful maintenance.

  Post Procedure Checklist

  • Verify that the CV Joint boots (944 331 903 00) are intact and properly seated.
  • Confirm that no clicking noises are present during a test drive, indicating successful maintenance or replacement.
  • Ensure all cleaned or replaced components are free of debris and properly lubricated.
  • Check that all tools and parts are accounted for and stored properly.

  Sources

  • Clark’s Garage
  • Pelican Parts
  • Porsche 944 Workshop Manual, Volume 1
  • YouTube