Installing new CV Axles With Engine Removed

[BrownBadger]

I am currently getting everything ready to go to install my new 4AC motor. I figured now would be a good time to do a bunch of other stuff while the engine was out and I had better access. One of the things I am doing is new CV's as the car needed at least one anyways. The problem I am having is I cannot get them to seat in the differential. Whenever I try to push it in, the whole transmission just moves since the engine is not holding it in place. Any tips or tricks for getting this done while the engine is out, or should I just wait until the engine is back in?

[Petros]

I use a really big screw driver or a pry bar like a chisel on the groove around the inner cv axle and tap it into place with a small sledge hammer or large soft hammer. the inertia of the trans should be enough if you can get a solid purchase on the inner cv axle to tap it in. put some grease on the spines and the seal. Some brands of axles do not have this groove, and it is more difficult to get pushed home. In that case perhaps put a block of wood cut to the right size between the trans and the frame to hold it in place so you can push it home.

[teranfirbt]

I was recently having issues with getting the axles on mine back in. I found that I had to orient the clip on the end of the splines with the gap to the bottom, then they went in without a fuss.

[marlinh]

Take up the weight of the trans with a jack a bit. That should help keep it still to get the axles in.