Twelve-Point Bolt With Ribs Between Drive Axle and Wheel Hub, Loosening and Tightening

Twelve-Point Bolt with Ribs Between Drive Axle and Wheel Hub, Loosening and Tightening

Special tools, testers and auxiliary items required

• Socket 24 mm (T10361)

• Digital Torque Wrench (V.A.G 1756)

Characteristics between a twelve-point bolt with ribs and a twelve-point bolt without ribs.






The contact surface - arrow A - and - arrow B - are different on the two-point bolts.

I - twelve-point bolt with ribs - arrow A -

II - twelve-point bolt without ribs - arrow B -

The wheel bearing must not be under a load while the drive axle threaded connection on the wheel side is loose.

If the bearings are loaded by the vehicle weight the wheel bearing will be damaged. This reduces the service life of the wheel bearings. Therefore, observe the following:

• Procedure for loosening 12-point bolt.

Vehicles without a drive axle must not be moved, otherwise the wheel bearing will be damaged. If vehicle must be moved, observe the following:

- Install an outer joint in place of the drive axle.

- Tighten outer joint to 120 Nm.

Loosening the 12-Point Bolt

- With vehicle still resting on wheels, loosen 12-point bolt with (T10361) maximum 90°, otherwise, wheel bearing will be damaged.

- Lift the vehicle just enough so that the wheels are hanging free.

- Operate brake (second mechanic required).

- Remove 12-point bolt - arrow -.






• Before installing, clean the threads in the CV joint with a tap.

12-Point Bolt, Fastening

- Replace 12-point bolt.

• Wheels must not yet touch the ground to tighten the drive axle, wheel bearing may otherwise be damaged.

- Operate brake (second mechanic required).

- Tighten 12-point bolt to 70 Nm.

- Lower the vehicle onto its wheels.

- Tighten 12-point bolt an additional 90°.