Technical Drive shaft and parts

[JakeF]

Hi everyone.

Im planning to change the axle couplings and sliding pieces on my 500 F 1967. I measured the drive shaft got ~19 mm, so I assume it is the thin one.

So I need the sliding piece for the thin shaft. But I can only find the axle coupling in one size? Is it the same for 24mm and 19mm shafts, or are I missing something? Shouldn't they have same "diameter"?

Thanks!
Jake

 

[the hobbler]

Morning!
If you look onto the 'Fiat 500 Ricambi' we-sit, they do a variety of drive-shaft couplings (look under 'gearbox')--I think part No. VB1003 might be the one you require--hope this helps

 

[JakeF]

Great site!

Ouch, quite a price for one coupling. It says for D model and I got a F model?
Is it possible to mount the complete 24mm set for this model? You get new shafts with a good price

Maybe I visit the garage today and take a couple of pics and measurements!

 

[RogerNZ]

Hi, the rubber driveshaft coupling is different on N and D models from all later models - F, L , R, 126 etc. On the N and D models the coupling is almost all rubber. On the the later cars it is rubber encased in steel and also has a greater diameter. I can't recall how much more diameter it has, but it is enough that you cannot fit the later model coupler into D swing arms- this is why D owners looking to run a 126 gearbox need to swap to later F model swing arms. The part you need on the 500 ricambi site is Vb1004 - very much cheaper than the same part for a D! You should not need to replace the sliders unless the splines are badly worn. If you do then the part is Vb1009.
Yes, you can fit the 24mm kit. These axles are much stronger and will allow you to run a more highly tuned motor. To change however you ned to remove the gearbox and split open the differential. It is not a good job for the inexperienced but is straightforward for any good gearbox mechanic. If you are going to that job it would pay to have the whole gearbox looked at and reconditioned, most have very bad wear on 1 st and reverse gears.
Good luck, let us know how you get on.
Cheers Roger

 

[JakeF]

Hi, the rubber driveshaft coupling is different on N and D models from all later models - F, L , R, 126 etc. On the N and D models the coupling is almost all rubber. On the the later cars it is rubber encased in steel and also has a greater diameter. I can't recall how much more diameter it has, but it is enough that you cannot fit the later model coupler into D swing arms- this is why D owners looking to run a 126 gearbox need to swap to later F model swing arms. The part you need on the 500 ricambi site is Vb1004 - very much cheaper than the same part for a D! You should not need to replace the sliders unless the splines are badly worn. If you do then the part is Vb1009.
Yes, you can fit the 24mm kit. These axles are much stronger and will allow you to run a more highly tuned motor. To change however you ned to remove the gearbox and split open the differential. It is not a good job for the inexperienced but is straightforward for any good gearbox mechanic. If you are going to that job it would pay to have the whole gearbox looked at and reconditioned, most have very bad wear on 1 st and reverse gears.
Good luck, let us know how you get on.
Cheers Roger

Thanks Roger!

So the coupling (vb1004) has a inner diameter of 19mm (for the splines), just like the slider? A assume they should have
Just not clear for me because it only says for "500-126-600".

Edit:

I just realised that only the slider goes trought the drive shaft splines(connected with bolts) and the coupling is fitted to the drum or whats it called. Sorry my bad, have to be more accurate next time. Now everything is clear as the sky . At first thought that they are both fitted to the drive shaft.

 

[Bambino]

Jake,

Have a look here for a nice pictorial description of what is entailed in changing the rear halfshafts -

http://www.flickr.com/photos/ricambifiat500/sets/72157615692546231/

It's not particularly difficult - though when I did mine, I did have a mechanic mate of mine looking over my shoulder.

Chris

 

[JakeF]

Jake,

Have a look here for a nice pictorial description of what is entailed in changing the rear halfshafts -

http://www.flickr.com/photos/ricambifiat500/sets/72157615692546231/

It's not particularly difficult - though when I did mine, I did have a mechanic mate of mine looking over my shoulder.

Chris

Thanks Chris,

Very nice and clear pics.
I have some experience of motorcycle motors, the 500 is new experience for me.
She has 60000km, dont know should I worry about the driceshafts, looks original? I know its hard to say, depends on how you change and drive.

Jake