T3 Syncro front CV joint protectors

Volkswagen realised that the front outer constant-velocity joints were prone to damage when the van was used on rough terrain. Consequently, from January 1990, front constant-velocity joint protectors were fitted to all 16-inch Syncro models and on some 14-inch models, under part numbers 251 407 405 for the left-hand side and 251 407 406 for the right-hand side.

Table of contents

• What are front CV joint protectors used for?
• Where can I buy these CV joint protectors?
• How are front CV joint protectors fitted?

What are front CV joint protectors used for?

There are several reasons to fit these protectors:

• The main one is that if stones or branches manage to get into that area, this protector will at the very least prevent the dust cover from being torn and causing a major problem. You need to avoid potential breakdowns in the middle of the mountains, especially if you’re travelling with children, as I will be.
• They also protect the bearing and the CV joint itself. Although if you take a heavy knock from a large stone, I doubt they’ll hold up and prevent a break. But I’d also say the impact would have to be very severe. At the very least, they’ll offer some protection.
• Also, as they’re fitted in front of the stabiliser bar, they protect that too.

Where can I buy these CV joint protectors?

As the original parts are no longer available, I’ve managed to get hold of a very good replica. These front CV joint protectors are made of stainless steel and are very well welded. The other part of these protectors is made of rubber and is attached to the steel plate with rivets.

If you’re interested in these protectors, please get in touch with me.

How are the front CV joint protectors fitted?

Installation is quite straightforward as they are fitted using the bolts that secure the brake disc guards. The only difficulty might be that, to access those bolts, you’ll need to remove the brake calipers and brake discs. It can also be tricky if the bolts and disc protectors are very rusty. I had that problem at the time and found it difficult to remove the bolt.

Now all that’s left is to fit them. What happened to me was that one of the rivets (the top one) was rubbing against the steering knuckle, so I couldn’t screw it in. I filed it down a bit and the guard fitted into place.

Refit the disc guard, the brake disc and caliper, and the wheel, and you’re done.

Here’s the result:

You can also see the whole installation process in the following video: