So going to replace the front axles on my '81 GL hatchback 4wd. 

Any tips or tricks? The Haynes says I need special tools. I am sure this is doable without Subaru specific tools at this point 39 years later!

D

Pop ball joint and axle roll pin out and pull the axle. 

if there’s rust have dual fuel torches ready.

7 hours ago, vesparex said:

Any tips or tricks?

If you haven't done this before watch the videos on how to do it.  There are also many historical posts from people who have done it many times.  A search should pull them up.

 

 

3/16 punch. preferrably a long one.

 

When you put it back together, it will only line up one way, if the roll pin doesn't go back in pretty easily, rotate the axle 180

Make sure the punch is not small enough to get stuck inside the roll pin!  I've read a number of times someone did this, and made themselves a nightmare. 

And look for and/or feel for the countersink in the axle and drive the pin out in that direction and re-insert it into that same countersink. It’s easier when you don’t fight tapers. 
 

Yes , that’s happened to this old man back when , where the punch was too thin but not such a disaster as I didn’t drive it hard and was able to yank it out after only minimal cussing. So naturally I have proper size punches in my box now. 
 

Enjoy !