torsional damper seperating

Afternoon all.
The propshaft torsional damper on the wifes freelander (did I say free...should be f..ing expensive) has separated with the outer metal ring banging around.The Inner rubber ring looks worn.Can I replace this unit or do I need anything else.If I can replace it,how easy is it.
Cheers for any help

The damper can be replaced, but the prop needs removing from the VCU first. You can cut the broken steel ring off with a grinder, for the time being.

Nodge to the rescue again.I am assuming the front part of the prop can be taken down separately from the back or does the whole lot need to come down?

You will need to remove the VCU - so you'll need to take the whole (VCU and 2 props) off. As Nodge says - the prop on the damper end of the VCU will need to come off - which is fine because it can just be bolted back on.

However, unless the damper can get over the VCU support bearing (which I doubt it can), you will also need to remove that. The damper will then slide off and (going by what Nodge says) a new one installed. Removing the bearing though may damage it and then you will be looking at replacing the bearing. While you are doing that, you may as well replace the other one. This will cost.

So probably the best option is just to angle grind it off. I don't think you'll notice much difference. I think this is what most people do. If you do feel its made the ride worse, then you can go through the process of installing a new one.

Before you embark on this though, it may be worth doing the 1 wheel up test to see what condition your VCU is in. If its at the end of its life - it would seam an ideal time to replace it and do the damper at the same time.

As GG said. Cut it off until the bearings need changing. Then replace everything at once. You'll probably not notice the damper missing anyway

Cheers guys.I took your knowledgeable advice and cut it off.Used a diamond tip disc but still took a bit of time.Drove home from high Wycombe....no difference.Thanks again.

bosnian said:

Cheers guys.I took your knowledgeable advice and cut it off.Used a diamond tip disc but still took a bit of time.Drove home from high Wycombe....no difference.Thanks again.

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Just for future reference diamond wheels aren't really the thing to use on steel