CV Joint - Removal question

[turbotaguy]

I am replacing the 1/2 shaft on my 2004 4x4 Ranger - passenger side. I have removed the caliber, bracket, removed the axle shaft nut, and separated the tie rod to the steering rack so I can move the spindle around.

In my experience with FWD cars, all you have to do now is push the shaft inward and turn the spindle to get the outboard portion of the 1/2 shaft free, then yank the inboard end out of the axle. Is that all I have to do on this Ranger?

The reason I ask is that I can't push the axle shaft inward. I've smacked it with a hammer, etc and it isn't budging. I wanted to make sure there isn't some locking mechanism in there or something. Please advise!

 

[shane96ranger]

A wonderbar and a couple swift hits with a hammer got mine free. The C-clip thing that holds it in place just needs to be jarred loose.

 

[holyford86]

every time I have pulled one of those the inner shaft comes out with the CV. I've clamped the unsplined portion of that shaft in a vice and given it a few hits with a deadblow and it usually pops right off. Probably not the right way to do it but it worked for me.

 

[adsm08]

There is a locking mechanism on the outboard splines. It's called rust.

I know this is extreme measures, but to get the outboard side out of the spindle I usually take my air chisel with the pointy bit to it. No, that is not Ford's recommended method.

If it really really won't come out, you can try undoing one of the ball joints (I prefer lower, but it can be harder to get to if you aren't on a lift) and then the knuckle out a bit to put some more stretch in the shaft, thus giving it more room to compress.

You will probably want a pry bar for the inboard side. they can be stubborn.

 

[turbotaguy]

Ok, so bottom line, the outboard shaft going into the hub is just locked in by rust. It is not "pressed in" and doesn't need to be "pressed out". I'll get my hammer and get to it.

 

[camodown]

careful because you can flatten the end of the shaft if you beat it with a hammer too much. anti-seize is your friend when you reinstall everything