FWD / AWD half shafts

SVX ROO · #1 04-04-2004, 04:09 PM

Are the front drive shafts the same or different for the 2WD cars vs. the AWD cars? I need to replace the both my outer CV joints and I found a great deal on a set of complete shafts for a 2WD car. Are they the same?
Ken

lee · #2 04-04-2004, 04:12 PM

don't know, but can tell you the part numbers are different at SubaruParts

SVX ROO · #3 04-04-2004, 04:37 PM

I went to www.subaruparts.com and I found the SAME part number for both. P/N = 28321 for teh complete assembly. Left and Right also the same.

The innner joints for 2WD and AWD are both 28392A and outers are both 28391A.

Anyone have listing showing different numbers for 2WD vs. AWD?
Ken

lee · #4 04-04-2004, 04:56 PM

I looked on model year 95 for the complete assembly.

the AWD version: http://www.subaruparts.com/diag/?mod...ategory=280A-1

and the FWD version: http://www.subaruparts.com/diag/?mod...ategory=280A-1

even though they show the same number (28321) on the exploded diagrams, the Subaru stock number and price is different when you click on that part's hyperlink.

However, if they show the same number for the year you're interested in, then I would say they are the same. Maybe something changed in the 95 model year.

SVX ROO · #5 04-04-2004, 08:02 PM

Lee
Thanks. That is the answer. I did not go far enough to the actual part number. They are just using the same exploded view and numbers on diagram for both parts.

They ARE different.
Ken

#6 04-05-2004, 11:39 AM

Those prices are NOT as a set...but each. I called the. $328.00 each...

Quote:

Originally posted by SVX ROO
Are the front drive shafts the same or different for the 2WD cars vs. the AWD cars? I need to replace the both my outer CV joints and I found a great deal on a set of complete shafts for a 2WD car. Are they the same?
Ken

TomsSVX · #7 04-05-2004, 11:54 AM

i believe the 2wd shafts are stronger because 100% output is run through them instead of the lesser but i think they are compatable, you can pick them up at local auto parts store for about 60 bucks a pop plus a 60-70 dollar core. I did mine and they are still good. make sure the splines for the diff and the hub are the same

SVX ROO · #8 04-05-2004, 12:34 PM

Tom
Yes, it seems lots of part shops have the $59 exchanges for the FWD cars.
Interesting you say they are stronger, yet Subaru charges $100 more for them!
But your car is a FWD, so you do not know for sure they fit an AWD. right? Good to hear yours are holding up OK with the rebuilst.

Today, I found one shaft for an AWD drive. After I swap it, I will go to place that has the FWD shafts for $59 and check the two together.

I'll update the board in a week or so.
Ken

TomsSVX · #9 04-05-2004, 03:57 PM

im not saying any of thta for sure, i only imagine they would be it would only make sense. anyway they should be thew same but just double check and let everyone know

SVX ROO · #10 04-10-2004, 12:07 PM

I have not answered the question about interchangeablitly of AWD and FWD half shafts. But for $55 for the correct shaft why bother looking. I get a good discount on my parts but that is really good price vs Subaru's $3XX.

Getting the ball joint out is another story! It had enough corrosion that I had to damage the joint to get it out of the pinched hub of the steering knuckle.

I will start another string but apparently these ball joints are "Subaru only". Does anyone know another source?
Ken

TomsSVX · #11 04-12-2004, 12:19 PM

dont remove the ball joint, just unbolt the 3 bolts on the bottom of the ball joint and you are done, it's the most painfree way of doing it

SVX ROO · #12 04-12-2004, 01:28 PM

I tried that option. I could only get the inner bolt out. The other two you get the nut off but the bolt interfers with the steering knuckle. I guess I did not try enough to swing bottom of ball joint out of way. Now that you mention it, that should be possible. If there are any tricks please post them.

Well I have the other side to do you. I'll be 'expert' in another week!
Ken

TomsSVX · #13 04-12-2004, 03:49 PM

turn the steering wheel so the ball joint is out of the way and use a punch and a ball-peen hammer and bang them out. You have to turn the wheel left to get the front most one out and then turn it right to get the back one out. It will work i did it many times when i was putting in new axles and when i was working on my trans.

CigarJohnny · #14 04-14-2004, 06:09 AM

Sounds like you already got your half-shaft, Ken, but I wanted to toss my 2 pennies into the pot anyway. There are indeed different axles for FWD & AWD SVXen. The FWD versions are thicker since they handle more power at all times. I replaced one of mine this past Fall and had to try a couple parts stores until I got the correct axle. It seems some suppliers get real confused when stocking them and you could easily get the wrong spline size. Always double & triple check as best as you can once you have the replacement in your hands before you tear the front end apart to make sure it is the correct replacement. Good Luck!

Johnny