Front CV axle in/out measurement/help.

[2.5TYPE44]

Does anyone know how much a CV axle should have for play (sliding in and out) Basically, you would have to have the car at normal ride height, remove the center bolt that keeps the CV sucked up to the wheel hub, and then measure what the distance the shaft slides in and out of the hub. Once the center bolt is removed, you can slide the shaft freely in and out. Any help with that measurement would be greatly appreciated. I want to make sure that I am not to short on my cv shaft length and putting it in a bind during turning or suspension travel. I am not sure if I need spacer or if I am good to run it the way it is. I believe a c3/c4 chassi should be good for measurements. I am trying to make sure I am not delivering full power through a CV that may be fully extended and run the risk of premature wear or breakage. I currently have 20mm of play in and out.

[2.5TYPE44]

Ok. I found my answer by pulling my CV axle. The answer is 24mm of in/out play. This is necessary for when you turn the wheels. My opinion is that it is best to have the CV axle 1/2 way extended or in the neutral/ free-resting position with the wheels facing straight. That way you have 12mm to stretch when the wheels get turned and you need the extra length. It is also important not to be bottomed out on the inner and outer cV's while the wheel is straight because you will probably apply stress and load pushing at the transmission and flange if the CV is too long. In my case, both of my axle shafts are too short which causes them to pull apart at the clip and leave very little spline engaged to the wheel bearing to deliver torque. It also causes the steering to be put in a bind when turning until the steering rack separates the CV axle by pulling so hard that the outer clip gives way. (Not good)
[youtube]https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=em-upload_owner&v=hCUig-Qw494[/youtube]