My Willys 3A and 3B Community

TECH FAQ SECTIONS => Gearboxes and axles => Topic started by: Belmondq on March 07, 2017, 09:53:28 PM

Title: Rear Axle Shaft Removal
Post by: Belmondq on March 07, 2017, 09:53:28 PM
And guidance on removing the rear axle shafts would be much appreciated. I believe it's a Dana 44 rear end 
Title: Re: Rear Axle Shaft Removal
Post by: LKap on March 07, 2017, 10:21:56 PM
If you do a search over on the 2a page you will get a ton of good tips. I just finished a rear end rebuild. The axles should come out pretty easy unless the bearing or race are rusted.  I used the "brake drum slap hammer technique"
Basically:
1. Using a heavy duty hub puller loosen the brake drum from the axle
2. Put drum GENTLY back on (without engaging taper)
3.  Put axle nut on and spin a couple turns to engage threads
4. GENTLY backslap drum against axle nut and the axle should slowly back out.
This should not require excessive force so as not to damage the drum.  Mine popped right out and I reused my drums without a problem
Title: Re: Rear Axle Shaft Removal
Post by: Belmondq on March 07, 2017, 10:51:47 PM
Crap....  I've removed the drums completely.

Title: Re: Rear Axle Shaft Removal
Post by: LKap on March 07, 2017, 11:02:10 PM
You are exactly where you want to be!! You're almost done!!! Just LIGHTLY put the drums back in position and thread the axle nuts on a few turns.  Backslap the drum against the nut and they should come right out
Title: Re: Rear Axle Shaft Removal
Post by: Belmondq on March 07, 2017, 11:11:54 PM
Can you explain what you mean by "back slap"?  Sorry, I'm note a real  mechanical fellar.
Title: Re: Rear Axle Shaft Removal
Post by: athawk11 on March 08, 2017, 12:20:50 PM
Back-slap...

With the drum and nut back on the shaft, use a rubber mallet, or a block of wood and a hammer.� Tap the inside edge of the drum.� This will dislodge the bearing race from the end of the axle.� Once the bearing is loose, the axle should slide right out.

Added a photo...

(http://i1195.photobucket.com/albums/aa397/athawk11/athawk11%20Willys%20White/image_zps37b6b19a.jpg)
Title: Re: Rear Axle Shaft Removal
Post by: Belmondq on March 08, 2017, 09:25:45 PM
Thanks, I really appreciate the guidance!  I'll give it a try.