CV axle removal, help! Options

[chaynes]

I need to replace my CV axles. Actually, the boots are bad, and the joints seem fine, but I'm afraid the task of taking apart the joints to replace the boots will be more than I want to do. So i picked up some CV axles from napa last weekend. I had the car up on the lift with the outer joint disconnected from the hub, and I couldn't separate the inner joint from the tranny! I tried prying on the tulip, like illustrated in the BGB, but to no avail. Also, prying against the tranny seems like a bad idea. Anyone have any hints as to how to get that thing out? I only tried the drivers side and failed, so i didn't even attempt the passenger side.....


BTW, the dealership wants $580 to replace the boots in case you were wondering.

[Bitter]

my new-rebuilt axles didnt come with the dampener and they ride just fine all the way upto 110mph, so i wouldnt worry about that.

as for getting the axle out, its held by a snap ring. they can be stubborn. what you need to do is get a straight bar against the inner joint then strike it with a large hammer. one good hard hit will knock the axle right out.


then replace your axle seals!

also, now is a great time to replace your gear lube in the trans as well as inspect your wheel bearings or just replace them.


you can reboot the axles fairly easily, but its quicker to just replace them and you'll have the peace of mind that they're new. it would suck if you rebooted them and then in 6 months they started making noise.