I'm trying to change my ball joints, hub bearings, etc. Only issue is that I cannot get the axle nut off. I've got a 1 11/16 socket for the nut, but I have already broken two breaker bars trying to get the nut to budge. Anyone have any ideas? Thanks.

 

P B Blaster ?

 

already soaked in it...no help so far

 

a little heat goes a long way...

 

Think a plumber's torch is enough? It's all I have access to.

 

Use a QUALITY 3/4" drive breaker bar with a cheater pipe . I removed mine recently and they were quite simple.

 

I got a long 3/4" setup from Sears if it gets trashed then they replace it.
Took the 3/4" setup a piece of pipe and put a board so it (the bar)would slide on it and backed up the truck tire turned and the nut backed off.
The second time year or so later to change the brakes I used the socket and bar then used the floor jack to lift the end of the breaker bar to get the nut off. Both ways work good. Dont heat in less your hub is trash already and you are sure of that, and the grease on the bearing can start a fire so be careful.
Jon

 

I broke down and bought a 3/4 breaker bar. I'll try a little heat with the new bar. My hubs are trashed so I don't mind killing them more. Thanks for the tips.

Nick

 

Did you remove the cotter pin from the castle nut?

 

You are leaving the tires on when you try to break it loose correct?
Sometimes you can just pull the center cap then put the breaker bar on it then jump on it to get it loose to. the first time I had to do one of these I had a 6' bar on it and with the full weight of the truck on the tire I could turn the tire it took someone locking up the brakes and all the weight on the tires. Thats why I let the weight and motor in the truck do it and just back up or pull fowards.
Still dont like to heat it because it is a hardened shaft and the heat will change how strong it is. If you put to much heat on it, you will not be able to torque it down as much.
Jon

 

I got it done finally. I had to use the new bar and socket...and stand and jump on the bar to break it lose.

Now my issue is breaking the steering knuckle loose so I can get to the ball joints...I hammer and it will not come off. I'm gonna let some PB blaster soak on it and see what gives.

 

Did you guys use a 12-point 1-11/16" socket? That's what I've got but am somewhat fearful of 12-point sockets rounding off the nut without loosening it.

Is it "safe" to use the 12-point or should I pick up a 6-point?

Ryan

 

I used a 6 point socket...I think they work better.

 

good thing I've got a 3/4in drive set come my turn taking front hub nut loose. sounds like it takes lots of muscle and leverage to remove.

all mine are 6 point, have never seen a 12 point socket that large?

 

I used a 1" impact, no problems at all. lol