I just finished removing my right axle (87 GL wagon) to do a CV boot rplacement, following the excellent instructions found here. Problem was, I encountered a LOT of resistance in getting the axle out. I was using a gear puller, and noticed the brake rotor starting to deform due to the extreme pressure. It finally took a combination of tightening the puller alternating with whacking the axle stub with a sledge to get it out. Any ideas on why this was so hard to remove, and what should I do to prevent this problem in the future? Thanks!

I just finished removing my right axle (87 GL wagon) to do a CV boot rplacement, following the excellent instructions found here. Problem was, I encountered a LOT of resistance in getting the axle out. I was using a gear puller, and noticed the brake rotor starting to deform due to the extreme pressure. It finally took a combination of tightening the puller alternating with whacking the axle stub with a sledge to get it out. Any ideas on why this was so hard to remove, and what should I do to prevent this problem in the future? Thanks!

 

Rusty spines?

Pyro

Did you remove that tapered washer located behind the nut?

Did you remove that tapered washer located behind the nut?

Yes - washer was off.

It was probably the first time in a long time that that axle came out. My guess it that it was just stuck real good. A few good wacks with a regular old hammer should get one out.

If you coat the stubs with anti-sieze compound the wont freeze together, I have had good luck with the Permatex brand, great for plugs, 02 sensors, exhaust hardware, etc...

I just make sure that when I put the new axle back in to coat it in grease. The stub axles on the tranny and the outer stubs on the axles alike.