rear axle bearing race - remover?

[davez26]

I'm changing the rear axle bearings and axles - one has twisted splines, on my '79 from the tapered two piece ones to the flat kind, and I can't remember how the heck I pulled the races out the last time I was in there. Any thoughts on the easy way before I get to this job?

[UnkleMunky]

This is what I used this past summer:
http://www.eskie.net/zip/images/slideham_1a.jpg
http://www.eskie.net/zip/images/slideham_1b.jpg

It's merely a slide hammer, with an impact socket on it. I used a series of washers on the screw part to hold the socket in place. Get the edge of the socket on the inside edge of the race, and slam it. Forget how many slams, but it was a number, to get the race loose, it worked for me. Had the parts, so didn't cost a dime. Also used this same setup on a front hub on a Full Size Dodge vans front wheel bearings shortly afterwards.

If you were staying with tapered bearings, I'd also recommend reusing the old race ONLY as part of a tap for tapping the new one in evenly(with a piece of hardwood to pound evenly)....that worked like a charm on the van hub! But, going with one piece replacement(which is all I could get too) on the Jeep axle, you don't need to worry about that! smile.gif

BTW....here's three pics of the axles out.....one is slightly longer than the other, and I "tagged" 'em so I knew 100% sure I wouldn't screw up which one went where! smile.gif

http://www.eskie.net/zip/images/raxle_1a.jpg
http://www.eskie.net/zip/images/raxle_1b.jpg
http://www.eskie.net/zip/images/raxle_1c.jpg

BTW...be though you probably won't, try not to "mar" the surfaces on the inner axle when you remove the race! smile.gif Also....new one piece units will probably use "splash" lubrication from gear lube.....make sure she's full! smile.gif

Take care...

[Crazy_Jeepman]

Well the tapered bearing race is not pressed in the axle houseing it just sits there. I use the pulling arms of my gear puller one in each hand and hook the race give it a quick jerk they usualy come out pretty easy. I hope you have better luck than I did with the non tapered bearing. I think you may have a serious problem with them as I did Here is a Pic for you to enjoy. http://images.andale.com/f2/116/106/4651773/1013218017963_D44_axle.JPG
You may also want to read this Thread!
Death-inviting Rear Axle (http://www.ifsja.org/cgi-bin/ubbcgi/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic&f=2&t=008139) ;)