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Chrysler Repair/half-axle removal

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Expert: Roland Finston - 11/8/2009


Question
how to remove the driver side axle when stuck?

Answer
Hi,
The important point is to not simply pull on the half shaft because that will possibly damage the connection to the tripod flex joint. Try pulling on the very end of the drive shaft, called the tripod housing (the part directly adjacent to the trans housing), simultaneously while pulling on the axle to see if that doesn't release. Then try using a pry bar levering the tip of the bar against the wide shoulder of the tripod, and fulcrum being on the transhousing bolt/stud if one is protroding from the trans housing an appropriate length to get an effective pry action. The c-clip on the stub output of the trans that has to release its grip on the tripod housing so as to be released. So rather than a steadily increasing pull you would want to give a quick/sharp yank on both parts simultaneously or with the pry bar and a simultaneous yank to get it to release. But don't pull just on the shaft as that can damage the joint. C-clip has to be compressed to allow the removal, and that will more likely happen if you give a quick yank/pry on the tripod housing.
Let me know the model, year, and type of trans if this doesn't work and I can see if I have anything in that specific veihicle's manual.
Roland

Chrysler Repair

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Roland Finston

Expertise

I take questions one at a time between 8am and 9pm CT and try to respond within 20 minutes. If I am shown as "MAXED OUT" try again at the 'top' of the hour as I may be answering another question or am otherwise busy. I specialize in Chrysler/Dodge/Plymouth cars, minivans, and SUV's for the model years 1982-2006 based upon my 50-year DIY experience, factory shop manuals and wiring diagrams. I offer fast repair advice to help you minimize repair costs by helping you diagnose and do it yourself. Problems with electronically controlled engines and transmissions as well as body wiring problems are my specialty. There are answers on file to more than fifteen thousand Chrysler questions at your finger tips: put a few key words in the "find" box (above) or click on "view past answers" for a chronological list of my q and a's. Don't use "Add to this answer" if you still have a question...ask it. I don't have manuals for truck or Jeep (except'04-'06).

Experience

Five decades as a 'do-it-yourselfer' on domestic and imported cars

Organizations
Yahoo Autos Group called The Chrysler Lebaron Club (co-moderator)

Education/Credentials
Degrees in Physics/bruised knuckles.

Awards and Honors
"Shortest average response time" at Allexperts (currently no. 1). "Top expert of 2010" at Allexperts. Among top 50 experts for years 2006-2009 at Allexperts. "Volunteer of the month" at Allexperts (June, 2011).

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