locker install - stuck axles

TJaefick · 01-28-2010, 08:59 AM

I'm in the middle of installing an Aussie locker in the front of my jeep and following the very nice write-up on 4x4xplor.com (Aussie Locker - Dana 30 Front Axle Installation Write-Up). Then I get to step 8... "Carefully pull your axles out about 6". You do not need to completely remove them for this installation."

Well, my axles won't budge and I'm not sure how much persuasion I should apply to them. I've removed the three 12-point 1/2" bolts and moderately tapped on the housing with a BFH, but nothing. This is probably the first time these axles have been taken out, so I imagine there'd be some corrosion and gunk slowing things up, but I didn't expect it to be this hard.

Help please!

robncar · 01-28-2010, 09:03 AM

Some folks have had success with either a socket or bolt wedged between the knuckle and C. You turn the steering wheel side to side.

TJaefick · 01-28-2010, 09:11 AM

I just found that on another site. But, do I have to remove the center hub nut? Neither the Aussie site nor 4x4xplor says anything about it, but most other install videos and write up say to remove it???

Jeepsr4me19 · 01-28-2010, 09:39 AM

NO leave the big nut alone.............

Jeepsr4me19 · 01-28-2010, 09:39 AM

You did take the brake caliper off right?

Alex74012 · 01-28-2010, 09:54 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jeepsr4me19

NO leave the big nut alone.............

TJaefick · 01-28-2010, 11:12 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jeepsr4me19

NO leave the big nut alone.............

Heh. Yes, I took the caliper and the rotor off. I'll try the bolt thing when I get back home. I did notice my u-joints are toast, so I'll replace those while I'm at it. Hopefully the seals and bearings are in good shape....

**slafferty** · 01-28-2010, 11:15 AM

I just gave the end where the u joints are some good whacks with a rubber mallet.

Jeepsr4me19 · 01-28-2010, 11:17 AM

Screw in the bolts a few turns so as not to srtrip the threads. I have a bunch of cheap sockets laying around. I put one on the bolts and bash it with hammer. Work your way around all 3 of them, also put a little PB Blaster around the hub. If you bash on a naked bolt it will musroom the head. I have since got a few extra bolts so I just bash away with those. These hubs can be tough to get loose.

GodsRollerskate · 01-28-2010, 11:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TJaefick

Heh. Yes, I took the caliper and the rotor off. I'll try the bolt thing when I get back home. I did notice my u-joints are toast, so I'll replace those while I'm at it. Hopefully the seals and bearings are in good shape....

If the axle is removed from the vehicle, or instead of pressing them out with your steering. You can also thread the three bolts partially back in, leaving about a half an inch not engaged. And wack the back of the bolts a couple times with a hammer. Pops right out.

GodsRollerskate · 01-28-2010, 11:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jeepsr4me19

Screw in the bolts a few turns so as not to srtrip the threads. I have a bunch of cheap sockets laying around. I put one on the bolts and bash it with hammer. Work your way around all 3 of them, also put a little PB Blaster around the hub. If you bash on a naked bolt it will musroom the head. I have since got a few extra bolts so I just bash away with those. These hubs can be tough to get loose.

Darn, beat me to it. haha

TJaefick · 01-28-2010, 11:54 AM

As usual, you guys rock. Thanks for all the tips, I'll let you know how the rest of the install goes. Can't wait to get this thing out on the trail. Aussie up front, and a rebuilt LSD in the rear is going to be a completely new jeep!

Jeepsr4me19 · 01-28-2010, 05:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GodsRollerskate

Darn, beat me to it. haha

I call that double confirmation, "we think a like"(said in voice of Carl from Sling blade)