1997 850 CV removal -- stuck now

[erikv11]

I've never done this but how about just file down the chisel so it is blunt? That way it can not damage the axle shaft. You can't use it as a chisel any more but still a cheap tool for the axle job.

[dosbricks]

Tomorrow morning I'll raise the car for more room, and swing a bigger hammer. I just don't want to do anything stupid. thanks. rick

Rick, I don't think it would be wise to swing a bigger hammer--now that xHeart has traumatized us all.

Looking at xHeart's second photo--specifically the surface of the transaxle case--there was some major force applied there.

[Ozark Lee]

To the previous question about where to position the chisel, I always orient the chisel straight up vertical but I position it offset from the center of the hub. More or less I position the chisel so that it is inset about 3/8" from the right hand edge of the inner CV joint as you look at it. That would put the left edge of the chisel at about the 4:00 to 4:30 position on the body of the CV joint. One or two moderate smacks with a small sledge hammer and it pops out every time and I have never even suffered seal damage.

...Lee

[erikv11]

Also in xHeart's linked thread, some great info from jimmy57:

" ... If it doesn't come out then, in this EXACT order, turn the axle 90 degrees, push in and the pry again. Repeat the turn-push-pry several times. The purpose is to get the circlip to slide down via gravity and allow you to pry it out if it falls into the correct place. Once you've pried too hard the clip can bend and then I'm not sure you'll get out without shearing the clip."

The axle should come out pretty easily. If it doesn't then slow down, don't force it, instead fiddle with it until it does. Avoid damaging it.

[850n00b]

If the axle you're trying to remove is an aftermarket replacement, you may need to go through the other side and give it some good direct pounds on the axle shaft. I've experienced stuck axles due to poor design of this before. OEM are either oval or have a triangular shape to them. Aftermarket axle clips are round. This is no bueno, and you should always swap over the OEM clips onto the new axles whenever possible.

[Tobers]

thanks to all for the input. i hate to admit this, but I couldn't get it done, so I sent it to the shop. I tried the chisel at 6 o'clock and on the right, around 4:30. I tried it a lot. It seemed like the wood wedges were really exerting the right pressure, too, but ... Maybe i needed a heavier hammer. It's 12 degrees here tonight (and i'm working outside), and the family is missing this car, so I just bit the bullet (as much as it pains me). I like the ideal of pushing/turning the axle ... but I didn't try it. thank you to all for the help. i'll be back with more troubles and questions! this is a great site, with great help. i'm very grateful. rick

[dosbricks]

When It's 12 degrees, anyone gets a pass

[erikv11]

Concur, double pass granted, kudos for trying! Just tonight I was thinking how glad I am to not be messing with the cars right now.

[abscate]

When I did my left front wheel bearing I had to give the shaft a healthy prise to pop it out. I can't remember if I took pix but will look and link.

-6F for us upstate this morning.

[FLXC90]

I've been losing fight with driver's side two rounds so far, passenger side was cake. Looking for a 5/8 chisel. 19degrees here in the frozen part of FLORIDA!