1992 Explorer front driveshaft removal

[work_in_progress]

Ok, long story short, its cheaper here where i am to purchase a used explorer front driveshaft for my Dana 35 conversion. i got the three of the four bolts out, the three that use the star tool, and how do you get the one that is a regular hex bolt out, or is that bolt just filled with rust and gunk? please help, before this truck I'm pulling it from gets crushed!

 

[vwa1]

It's probably just filled with rust and dirt, or someone has replaced it with a standard hex bolt somehow. These are the small bolts that hold the straps to the front axle yoke right? If it's going to the crusher anyway... This might be one of those times when violence is a perfectly sensible solution. Torch off the bolt head, or beat it off with a cold chisel and BFH. Bend the strap out of the way enough to get the driveshaft out, etc. Get medieval on its ass. Obviously, don't do this if it's going to damage something you need.

 

[Tallpaul]

If it is rusted in, try taking a cutting torch or a bottle of map gas and heating it and where it's bolted in at. The heat will make the hole expand breaking the rust loose. Then you should be able to break it loose with an impact, breaker bar, or a long heavy duty ratchet. I'd do this before I start hacking. I've had really good luck with this method especially on rust prone bolt like exhaust bolts. If that doesn't work, then do what you have to do because you can't win them all.