I am finally getting around to fixing the leaking rear axle seal on my Expy ('99 with 9.75")

What is the best way to get out the stinking U-Washers? Alldata makes them look easy but that isn't what I'm seeing.

I managed to get the driver's one out - fortunately this is the side that has the leaking seal.

BUT - I cannot get the passenger's side out - it seem like the axle is not pushing far enough up to let it clear the gear face. I had planned on replacing both seals and parking shoes. I hate to not do the passenger's side and have it start leaking soon after.

Any trick to getting these things out?

Thanks for any tips!
Rob

 

Guys - got the passenger side out. I got my son to hold the axle in and tapped across the open side of the U-washer with a wide chisel and it slid right out.

Problem Solved!

Rob

 

Sometimes it's nice to have a second person to lend a hand.