front axle u-joints
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So I've got it down to the spindle and I can't get it to separate from the axle. Any tips for this part? Also, I think the retaining key for the wheel bearing might be broken, it came out in two pieces. Anyone know where I can get another one of these?
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Any other ideas? Those things are rusted on there tighter than bark on a tree. I don't want to hit 'em too hard on the spindles themselves. Unfortunately I don't have a torch, but I think a little heat might be what they need.
Post Fiend
Joined: Oct 2003
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From: MICHIGAN
I use a 5 lb rawhide hammer to get the spindle to move. You can really whack it hard and not cause any damage to the spindle. or, Hammer out the studs, they are serrated like a wheel stud. They can be reinstalled after you get the knuckle off.
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Laughing Gas
Joined: Dec 2005
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From: Reno, NV
Originally Posted by Cuda_jim
I use a 5 lb rawhide hammer to get the spindle to move. You can really whack it hard and not cause any damage to the spindle. or, Hammer out the studs, they are serrated like a wheel stud. They can be reinstalled after you get the knuckle off.
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Posting Guru
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From: Munroe falls, Ohio
Go to autozone and borrow their 4WD spindle puller attachment.(it goes onto a slide hammer). Install the spindle tool tightly, and wack away with a sledge hammer. When you break the rust seal, start alternating sides to walk it out, putting chesils on the opposite you are hitting walks it out faster.
Lead Driver
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 8,608
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From: Belair md
the slide hammer is a good method, i didnt realize autozone carried it, but the hammer has never let me down and while working for the county years ago the trucks were.....well lets just say they werent kept in the best of shape. and after plowing and spreading salt with 'em they werent exactly rust free either
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That's awesome! Exactly the tool I was looking for. Spent about 3 hours yesterday trying to get them off and had it done in 5 mins after I got that baby! Now I'm trying to get the snap rings out and can't get them to come. Any tips on that? Thanks a ton for the help.
Lead Driver
Joined: May 2007
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From: Belair md
snap rings on the u-joints can get ugly. i assume they are pretty well stuck, dont waste the time with the pliers till u get them busted loose, its real easy, use a socket, 9\16 or 5\8, place it over the ring and give it a good whack, if that doesnt free it up then use a punch and hit it as though you were trying to spin the clip around in a circle