[OldGriz]

I'm replacing my 2004 s10 blazer drivers side axel and can't get it off. Haynes manual says after 1999 there is a snap ring instead of a bolted flange holding it to the front differential. All it says about removal " To release the drive axle hit the inner part of the tri-pot housing with a hammer and a piece of wood until the snap ring releases."
It doesn't say where or what direction to hit from?
Any ideas????

Griz

 

[Mostizzle]

I just grab the inboard joint and give it yank. If that don't work I persuade with a pry bar between the inboard joint and the front diff.

 

[OldGriz]

I just grab the inboard joint and give it yank. If that don't work I persuade with a pry bar between the inboard joint and the front diff.

What/where is the snap ring they are talking about? I don't see anything on the new axle that gives me a clue? I'm afraid if I pry too hard I'll break something

 

[ShadeTreeMech]

I'm not aware of any snap ring(s) holding the axle in the frt diff ? The cv axle is held in place with the cv axle nut onto the knuckle, which also holds the frt rotor on. Loosen the axle nut, then separate the upper/lower ball joints and caliper. Now remove the cv axle nut and if one used, the washer, then the knuckle (just makes it easier). Then remove the axle. You may need a fork (tie rod/pitman arm fork) to pry it loose from the differential or a fashioned slide hammer.
I'd suggest you search Youtube for a good video.
g/l

 

[Mostizzle]

The snap ring is internal, and there is one....on the diff side. Now you know.

Just pry it out, stop over thinking it. No YouTube video is necessary.

 

[OldGriz]

I

I'm not aware of any snap ring(s) holding the axle in the frt diff ? The cv axle is held in place with the cv axle nut onto the knuckle, which also holds the frt rotor on. Loosen the axle nut, then separate the upper/lower ball joints and caliper. Now remove the cv axle nut and if one used, the washer, then the knuckle (just makes it easier). Then remove the axle. You may need a fork (tie rod/pitman arm fork) to pry it loose from the differential or a fashioned slide hammer.
I'd suggest you search Youtube for a good video.
g/l

I made a slide hammer but all it did was pull the inner joint apart pulling the shaft and the three big ball bearings out leaving the cup/housing thing attached to the differential.
I just gave up for the night before I started throwing tools across the yard... lol

 

[Mostizzle]

See the second sentence of the second post. The end.

 

[oldeerslayer]

They can get hung up a bit sometimes. I use about a 2-3# hammer and keep rotating the axle. Slapping it back in once in a while to unbind it helps.