Transaxle and torque tube
How engine and gearbox are joined in the 944, which bearings sit in the torque tube and how wear shows itself.
In short: In the 944 the gearbox sits at the rear axle. A shaft in a rigid tube – the torque tube – joins clutch and gearbox. That evens out the weight, but work on the clutch and torque tube is a big job.
The principle
The transaxle gives an almost even axle load distribution. The torque tube is bolted to the clutch housing with four bolts and carries the drive shaft back to the gearbox.
Torque tube bearings
Four ball bearings sit on the shaft, in stamped steel carriers with rubber splines on the outside (type in the table). On early 944s the carriers are two-piece and riveted.
Symptoms
Whining or droning at speed can be a sign of a worn torque tube bearing. Similar noises can have other causes – diagnosis belongs with a specialist.
Effort
Work on the torque tube – and every clutch change – means removing the gearbox and sliding the tube back. This needs a lift or many axle stands and a transmission jack. The transaxle mounting was also revised in mid-1985 against noise and vibration.
Technical values
Only work with the workshop manual and the correct tools. Do not use unverified values without checking them – wrong tension values can destroy the engine.
| Value | Figure | Condition | Status | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bearings in the torque tube | 4 bearings, type FAG 6006 2Z in carriers with rubber splines | – | unverified | [2] |
Sources
- Secondary source Porsche 944 (Abschnitt «Production»)
Secondary source. Production tables per model year, no book citation; totals are partly inconsistent.
- Secondary source Torque Tube Removal, Rebuilding, and Installation
Torque tube design and bearings.
- Secondary source Clutch Replacement
Clutch design and removal, labour times.
- Secondary source Porsche 944 buying checklist (PDF)
Buying checklist ordered by area.