Topic: Rear Axle - Outer Race Removal

[aka-justin]

What's the easiest way to remove the rear axle outer bearing race? I didn't like the process I did last time with my Dana 35. I've been looking for a puller of sorts, but can't find one.

I saw this tool from a guide on 4x4wire.com with a 2 jawed gear/pully puller and a flat bar.

[sharpxmen]

that's fine if you can keep the jaws from slipping off the bearing race - problem is that once you start pulling with that tool the arms tend to go towards the center (it's an outside bearing puller). there is a special puller made to diameter that is used usually, you can make one our of 1/2 flat bar and round the corners, you need to insert it inside the tube laying flat and then pull it towards the race - you can have a threaded hole in the center and use a bolt to pull it out and the race along with it - if you're lucky it won't bend and the threads will hold, the ready made ones are heat treated for that matter and thicker towards the center where the bolt is.

[Jeffy]

What's the easiest way to remove the rear axle outer bearing race? I didn't like the process I did last time with my Dana 35. I've been looking for a puller of sorts, but can't find one.

I saw this tool from a guide on 4x4wire.com with a 2 jawed gear/pully puller and a flat bar.

That's actually my Jeep.  I didn't feel like buying anything so I used what I had laying around.  There were no problems getting the race out.  Or you can just rent a axle bearing puller.

There isn't much holding the race in and usually once you get it to move it will be easier and easier to get out.

[aka-justin]

That's actually my Jeep.  I didn't feel like buying anything so I used what I had laying around.  There were no problems getting the race out.  Or you can just rent a axle bearing puller.

There isn't much holding the race in and usually once you get it to move it will be easier and easier to get out.

Didn't know, cool.

I was thinking about trying one of these set through a plate or or the 2/3 jaw combo puller.
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http://www.harborfreight.com/rear-axle-bearing-puller-set-66380.html
Rear Axle Bearing Puller Set

Item # 66380 Manufacturer: U.S. General
Allows you to easily remove semi-floating rear axle bearings.

■Includes the following sizes to fit the main bearing tube ID: 1" to 1-7/8", 1-5/16" to 2-3/8", 1-3/8" to 2-7/8"
■Works on most domestic cars
■Stored conveniently in a blow mold case for easy storage and transport
■Cast steel construction
Requires a 2-5 lb. slide hammer with 5/8"-18 TPI threaded adapter (not included).

Lead screw: 9/16"-18 TPI diameter x 5-1/2" L
Lead screw: 3/4" drive x 5/8"-18 TPI
Shipping Weight: 3.00 lbs.

[Jeffy]

Didn't know, cool.

I was thinking about trying one of these set through a plate or or the 2/3 jaw combo puller.

You'll need a slide hammer.  Problem with those, is that that's all they're good for and no one really uses a slide hammer anymore either.  If you have a parts store hear you rent them.

A puller works but can he a pain to setup.  You'll have to play around with it to get the legs to grab the race and not slip off.  Once it's on though, it shouldn't take much to remove it.

Here's the proper tool you want.

<a href="http://www.youtube.com/v/jhHojXPWFc4" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="bbc_link bbc_flash_disabled new_win">http://www.youtube.com/v/jhHojXPWFc4</a>

[aka-justin]

That looks perfect Jeffy. I was at harbor freight when you replied. If the US General Kit + a plate doesn't work, I'll be heading to NAPA. I know I should spend the $94 and take back the other. I like being stupid. 

[Jeffy]

I'm sure it will work fine.  If you need more height you could add some bolts to the angle iron.

[dwtaylorpdx]

I just poke the tip of my mig welder in and run a 1/2 in bead in the center of the race, let it cool and it falls out from shrinkage.

:)

Dave