Diff Output Shaft Removal - Success

[AlfaLofa]

Well I've been attempting to remove the output shafts from a spare diff now for several weeks.
And today I had success

I've been heating, freezing, soaking, hammering and pulling all without success - although I expect copious quantities of Gunk's "Liquid Wrench" and Wurth's "Rost Off Ice" did help to lubricate the bearing/carrier interfaces.

Anyway today I decided to give the 3-Bolt-Push method a go.

I know some members have found this method very efficient - but others have suggested that damage could be caused the aluminium carrier.

Up until today I've been paranoid that I might wreck the carrier.
But after all my previous failures I had nothing to lose so I gave it a go.

I placed a bolt with a threaded nut and large washer under and through each arm of the of the output shaft and then unscrewed each nut until the washer was firmly pressing against the shaft arm.

I turned each nut until it was tight - and then gave it just a little bit more (so never too much pressure on the shaft)

With the shaft under tension I then applied heat and then gave the outer end of each arm a few good taps with a small hammer (hitting towards the centre of the shaft).

I then doused the bearing with a freezing aerosol - and then retightened the nuts (proving that the shaft had moved).

I repeated this process a few more times and out popped the shaft - took about 30 minutes in total and the 2nd shaft took about the same time.

Success

[alexblack13]

Sounds like a result. Well done.

This is another fine example of how this 'community' could really use a good tool loan system. Why don't we set this up?

So... Here's another offer. Anyone needing a good heavy duty (but home made! Well you know me by now) Slide Hammer made for this purpose? ... all you need do is ask.

Just a small donation to GOSH is all I ask... & ... You cover the postage.

I have sent out my dummy layshaft twice and a front spring compressor once. I must admit to loosing a few tools too though.

Alex...

[mark030358]

I have a rear hub removal tool for bolt on hubs and a slide hammer too.

[el-saturn]

good work and ideas - community is a magical word and when lived properly it?s
a mutual gain - i have lots of tools (yes, they are snap on: for the nosy ones) and
machines but nothing particular! if you?re close you?re wecome to use ?m - cheers
sandy 36/4982

[RichardHawkins]

I have a slide hammer puller for differential output shafts, and a hydraulic puller for rear hub removal. I am happy to lend these tools to anyone, but am reluctant to let them out of my sight, as I have had bad experience of tool loan in the past, so you need to be fairly close to North Lincolnshire. I have used stainless bearings and circlips in the aluminium differential casing, which I hope will reduce corrosion.

Richard Hawkins