[Tony_D]

I believe my RH rear axle seal is leaking because the brake backing plate is wet. I have the service manual and it calls for a special slide hammer tool to remove the axle.

I haven't looked for that tool but I'm pretty sure there is another way to do this; can someone please enlighten me?

I did a search but it came up empty...

Thanks!

[b-man]

Usually they come right out after removing the 4 bolts retaining the axle, no slide hammer needed.

If there is some unusual corrosion around the bearing, try using a wheel as a slide hammer. Lug nuts on by a few turns, so you can bang the wheel back and forth.

[Tony_D]

Thanks for the tip!

[george kujanski]

If you have to bang on it to pull it out, my opinion is to replace the bearing because it could get damaged in the process. Mine came out without an issue, tho, and they were in there a long time.

George

[b-man]

Originally Posted by george kujanski

If you have to bang on it to pull it out, my opinion is to replace the bearing because it could get damaged in the process. Mine came out without an issue, tho, and they were in there a long time.

George

Good point George.

These sealed ball-bearing axle bearings are notorious for failing and spinning the inner race on the axle, effectively destroying the axle.

If they haven't ever been replaced, now would be a good time to do it to prevent scrapping the axles even if you don't need to bang on them to get them out.

[400 4spd.]

We recently had to replace the axles in Racerboy's housing. One had a bearing surface issue, the other had spiral shaped splines, no doubt caused by 428 torque-itis.

[marxjunk]

i use 6 ft of chain..bolt on the axle and give it a whip type pull the weight of the chain will pull it right out,...just dont hit the 1/4 panel...that sucks...or go rent a slide hammer...

ive never had one just slide out...ever...they have to be convinced to come out..every single time ive ever changed one..and i always replace the bearings, always..just order them and wait til you have them in your hand...they are special order around here..

[Goatracer1]

Turn the brake drum upside down and put the lug nuts on loosely then use it like a slide hammer.

[Tony_D]

Thanks for all the replies. I've had the car for 14 years but don't know if the rear end has even been apart. Probably a good idea to replace the bearings while I'm in there!

[GT182]

Yep, if you have the axles out change the bearings.

The mechanic that's putting in my Limited Slip said the same thing to me.... "it's better to change em now instead of later. Why spend more money later on. You don't know what shape they're in now so do the smart thing and change them out while it's all apart."

[Rugratman]

I just did this. Use the drum turned around as a hammer. Mine were stuck.
Took some banging, then they slid right out. 50 years in there.
Machine shop inspected and installed the new bearings and race for me. $100.00
Our host sells a axle bearing kit.
Has the seals too, and the gaskets.

I needed a puller to get the seals out. They were glued in.
8.2 rear.