rear axle- removal, trying to inspect cv joints Options

[eyecolor]

I have disconnected the trans side when I dropped the engine. Now I want to take the axle off to inspect the CV joints.
I have removed the 4 bolts from the hub side but the unit is still fighting me to come out. I did see the pins holding the other side in and figured it just took some force.
After running out of force, I checked the Haynes manual and it seems to say I need to take off the large central nut and cotter pin on the other side.
Before I go this route, any advice? Thanks.

George
Wilmington,DE

[Gint]

They're expensive and a lot of work. No sense replacing bearings that don't need to be replaced. They rarely go bad on their own unless they're messed with. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

I've had pretty good lick lightly tapping on the inner cv towards the transaxle with a ball peen hammer. Don't get crazy. You just need to get that outer cv off of the roll pins. If the bolts are already out, you only need to move it 3/8" or so to get it off of the roll pins. Done.

[underthetire]

They're expensive and a lot of work. No sense replacing bearings that don't need to be replaced. They rarely go bad on their own unless they're messed with. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

I've had pretty good lick lightly tapping on the inner cv towards the transaxle with a ball peen hammer. Don't get crazy. You just need to get that outer cv off of the roll pins. If the bolts are already out, you only need to move it 3/8" or so to get it off of the roll pins. Done.

Mine were not messed with, and I didn't even know they were bad. I pulled mine for a 5 lug. That little weird noise was gone after. 40 year old grease tends to go away. And in the grand picture of all the wheelbarrows of money we throw at these little cars, whats a hundred bucks? I'm just sayin if they are 40 years old, why take a chance.