Front half-shaft problem

[mtnstyne]

2002 XLT 4x4 passenger side half shaft replacement. When I went to separate the half shaft from the main axle it didn't separate correctly. Instead the main axle is still tightly connected but pulled out with the half shaft from the differential. I can't pull it completely out due to the length and other parts in the way. Is it safe to brute force and pry the small lips between the two?

Second question, since this isn't normal does that indicate there is something wrong within the front differential?

thanks, good way to start my weekend.

 

[adsm08]

You can try to brute force it. Shouldn't hurt anything as long as you don't score a bearing or seal surface.

The piece you got out that you didn't want is called a "spud shaft". It coming out only means that the circlip holding the CV shaft to the spud was stronger than the circlip holding the spud to the side gear.

If you can I would get the spud out and check that the inner clip is still on it. If it isn't you need to open up the diff and find it.

 

[mtnstyne]

Thanks for the help. I was thinking it would be that simple, but wanted to confirm. Off to get dirty.

 

[adsm08]

Have fun.