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]

You don't have to pull the stub axle out. You can, but it isn't necessary. It just takes some real cajones to pull the axle and the cv off of the stub.

On the flip side, if you take the stub axle nut off and attempt to take a stub axle out and it doesn't want to come out, and then you end up forcing it out, you'll likely need new wheel bearings by the time your done. It's a slippery slope...

[detoxcowboy]

You don't have to pull the stub axle out. You can, but it isn't necessary. It just takes some real cajones to pull the axle and the cv off of the stub.

On the flip side, if you take the stub axle nut off and attempt to take a stub axle out and it doesn't want to come out, and then you end up forcing it out, you'll likely need new wheel bearings by the time your done. It's a slippery slope...

I agree, we just did a thread on this.. I was able to get mine sperated by yanking a couple times and then quater turn the wheel and yanking a few more times, ect. ect. for about what was 5 minutes of tuggin and rotating they popped right off, was same struggle for both sides but easier and less invasive than trying to take everything apart.. no tools just two hands and arms and patience..