pinion shaft retainer bolt broke

[jburns6177]

1990 Ranger 4wd, 2.9
I tried to replace the rear axle bearings and the pinion shaft retainer bolt has been snapped off about 1/2 in into it's hole.
Any suggestions... besides a new rear end? Don't see how it can be drilled out.
It is a 7.5.

 

[Tedybear]

1990 Ranger 4wd, 2.9
I tried to replace the rear axle bearings and the pinion shaft retainer bolt has been snapped off about 1/2 in into it's hole.
Any suggestions... besides a new rear end? Don't see how it can be drilled out.
It is a 7.5.

We just did ours TWICE due to crappy repair bearings. (never buy the cheapo from the parts house, go NAME brand!)

The Tech section has a couple of how to's that cover axle service. I know the exact one you have--ours is the same type and it's a bugger to work around.

Did this just happen? Or has that bolt always been broken?

S-

 

[adsm08]

Check out these two threads...

http://therangerstation.com/forums/showthread.php?t=132959&highlight=Jesus+Bolt
http://therangerstation.com/forums/showthread.php?t=132430&highlight=Jesus+Bolt

 

[johnmillward]

It can definitely be drilled out. I did one on my son's truck a year ago. It is a real PITA but it can be done, just be patient and go slow. it really helps to have a long drill bit. I did it with a shorter bit and a flex extention that I had on hand. Good luck