Expert: Brad Sears - 5/20/2009

Question
I am trying to remove the right rear axle on a 1947 Lincoln Continental. I understand I have to first remove the brake drum, but have not been able to find a suitable puller to do so. Any suggestions on removal?

Answer
The last cars that used this type of tapered fit between the axle and the hub were produced in the late 1940's and as such the pullers that we used to use are no longer made and have all but disappeared from the landscape. A tool rental center that has been in business for a while may have on. If not we used to use a "bingo" cap to remove the hub and drum quickly. We made the bingo cap on the lathe in the shop and we all had several different sizes in our tool boxes. You will need a piece of round or square stock at least twice the size of the threaded end of the axle shaft and 6 inches long. Drill or bore a hole in one end of the stock and thread it the same size and thread as the axle threads. The hole should be one inch deep. Then jack up the opposite wheel of the car, if you are working on the left rear jack up the right rear leaving the left rear tire on the ground supporting the weight of that corner of the car. Remove the big axle nut and screw the bingo cap in place making sure that it is not up tight against the hub, leave 1/4 inch space. Then with the biggest sledge hammer that you can swing, I use a wood splitting maul, whack the end of the bingo cap. After several or more good solid hits you should hear the hub release from the axle with a snap. Then jack up the wheel, remover the bingo cap and the hub and drum should slide off. Do not beat on the end of the axle shaft as you will destroy the threads, you need the cap in place.
Good luck
Brad