6.9 Rear end rebuild - Pictorial

[WGB]

Having been frustrated at trying to remove the rear diagonal arm bushes with the subframe in situ I realised the new "clanging" noise from the rear on right hand corners was getting worse and beginning to occur at low traffic speeds.

I believe that it is a C-V joint breaking up and allowing the shaft to hit the metal shroud of the joint.

As I had already removed and rebooted the joints on the right rear shaft I have decided I will try for a permanent rear end repair and replace the lot - so I have ordered all the bits that I don't already have or have already replaced and will be doing the conversion to diff flanges and 560SEL drive shafts.

The first photo shows a package that arrived on Tuesday from the Classic Centre, Irvine, California.



This shows a pair of new flanges and all the necessary fixings. Total Cost US$285 including Postage.

The second photo shows one of the two 560 shafts , the diff seals and one of the two rear hub bearing kits. US$905 including US$234 in postage - package weight 45lbs.



I have already replaced the three rear subframe mounts and also already have in my possession a new flex drive plate and the four rear diagonal arm bushes.

Unfortunately my car hoist has sprung a leak in the hydraulic ram and yesterday I dismantled it and am getting new seals organised for it then I have to fabricate a frame to bolt to the top of my transmission hoist to enable me to drop the whole subframe unit out in one fell swoop.

Bill

The aim is to never have to pass that way again.

 

[John S]

The prices you paid for the parts seems fantastic value (even including the freight!), I hate to think what the cost may have been if you had ordered them locally.

 

[WGB]

THe flanges were quoted at $215 plus GST each with a 10% discount from the local agents - they were US$97 each ex California. They came from the same warehouse presumably.

The shafts are US$261 each and seem too much of a bargain to leave sitting.

Bill

 

[Michel]

Is there an advantage in using 560 shafts?

Or is it a case of 'that's all we have'?

 

[WGB]

Hi Michel,

a) Once the flanges are installed it makes future changes much easier as the diff shouldn't need to be moved sideways or opened to change a shaft.

b) As far as 6.9's go they are the only new shaft available that I know of at an economical price that is supposed to take the torque.

A 6.9 in first gear of it's 3 speed tranny is probably not putting as much torque into the axle as a 560 in first gear of it's 4 speed.

c) Where can you buy a new 6.9 shaft at any price let alone $261.

Bill