How to remove front diff from Dana 35

[1990 stx 4x4]

Hi new to the site, but best ranger site I have found. I have a 1990 Ranger STX extended cab 4x4 with a 4.0 engine and auto trans. 35x12.50x 15 BFG
Started out replacing ball joint but after reading your tech section I am rebuilding complete front end with all suggested upgrades including 1996 duel piston calipers.
My question is I pulled all the bolts out holding the carrier in place, but there is a pinch bolt in the way of removing the carrier. Do I have to remove the leftside Radius arm to pull the pinch up and out of the way, or can I grind the top of the Radius arm just enough to pull the pinch bolt out ??
Do I have to reinstall the pinch bolt...10 bolts hold the carrier to the axle housingand I dont see the use for the pinch bolt.
any help would be great.

 

[bobbywalter]

welcome to the site

you want the pinch bolt if you like to abuse it.


you can grind a bit off the arm and a bit off the head to get the bolt out, works good.

i have been known to use a few methods that involve a mason chisel as well....but that can get ugly


if you use most aftermarket arms or make your own the bolt comes out easy.


if you dont put the pinch bolt back in your taking a chance on kinking the beam....i have wasted many...a couple because the bolt broke and the bottom fell out....not sure the cause and effect of that though.

 

[black_demon69]

i believe you do need to remove the radius arm (if i remember right) .

if rebuilding the front end don't forget the axle pivit bushings, spindle bearings, or radius arm bushings.