[garata22]

Hey Guys,

Just picked up an 8.5 rear end from a 1971 Cutlass that I will be swapping into my 72 Lemans. Before swapping I wanted to freshen it up and drop in a posi carrier and gears that I pulled from my 78 T/A (3.42 gears.) The problem is that the axles wont pull out. I know that this is not a C-Clip style rearend and I have pulled out the 4 bolt on each end that hold the retainers and backing plates on. Are they maybe just stuck and need to be pounded out? If so what is the best way to do this? I just never worked with the style rear before and I would prefer not to mess anything up in the process. I also removed my differential caps.

Thanks for the help.

[milkcrateracing]

The axles should pull out. Some take a little persuasion. A slidehammer works well for this. I have used a rubber mallet on the back of the flange and a prybar for leverage on the backing plate with some success if they aren't really hung.

hth

[garata22]

Originally Posted by milkcrateracing

The axles should pull out. Some take a little persuasion. A slidehammer works well for this. I have used a rubber mallet on the back of the flange and a prybar for leverage on the backing plate with some success if they aren't really hung.

hth

I'll have to try the slidehammer approach tonight.

[GStage1]

Slide hammer is best....may take many tries.

Would be a good time to inspect the axle bearings. Install new axle shaft seals too.

[Txbobcat]

Dont forget the chain method similar to the slide hammer. Bolt 2 links to the lug nuts then jerk the slack out repeatedly till it slides out.

[garata22]

Originally Posted by GStage1

Slide hammer is best....may take many tries.

Would be a good time to inspect the axle bearings. Install new axle shaft seals too.

I finally pulled them out with the slide hammer method, and I'm very glad that I did take it apart! The person before me decided to sand blast the rear end and the axles were covered with sand The axle bearings will need to be replaced. Does anyone know the best place to get new seals and bearings? Possible part numbers?

Thanks for the help,
Steve

[green70judge]

If you find out where to get these bearings cheap let me know... I will need to buy a set for mine too....

[GStage1]

Email Jim at mitschke454@windstream.net

He builds rear axles for a living

[CraigGT37]

I hate to highjack,but if the olds has bolt-in axles, how will the c-clip diff work with those axles? I know they are both 8.5's, are they a direct swap or do you need to do anything?
Thanks,Craig