C5 X7 AM6: driveshaft completely stuck in the gearbox

[marsalek]

Hi guys,

I am currently replacing the left-hand driveshaft on my C5 X7 HDi 240 with the AM6 automatic gearbox. The driveshaft is completely stuck in the gearbox

While giving it a hard yank, the inner CV joint pulled apart, so now only the inner joint cup (housing) is left stuck inside the gearbox. Looking at the new driveshaft, I noticed there is no groove for a circlip, so it seems it is just a push-fit. There is a tiny bit of axial play (a few tenths of a millimeter), and it feels like the splined counterpart inside the differential is moving slightly along with it.

There is barely any room to work around the inner joint cup What is the best way or tool to get this remaining piece out? Any tips or tricks would be highly appreciated!!!

Thanks a lot,
Karel

[mickthemaverick]

You may get an idea from this video:

[marsalek]

Hi Mick, thank you for the video! I sprayed some penetrating oil and wait over night with the hope, it will help tomorrow

[xantia_v6]

The driveshaft splines are not behind an oil seal, so are exposed to moisture and have probably formed a rust bond with the differential output shaft.

A sharp blow will probably work better than brute force to break it free.

[Kees]

There is an o-ring on the drives haft to prevent this, but I had this comes of one time when i removed the drive shaft and yes, then it's possible what you saying.