Stuck rear axle

[jebudallaha]

Hey,
My rear axle bearing failed on my '83 and when I went to go pull the axle to replace it I was unable to pull the axle. The manual makes it look like the axle is held on only by the retainer plate that is accessible by removing the brake drum (and not by a c-clip on the differential end of the axle like in many cars). I've used a slide hammer and I can't even get the axle to budge. I have another complete rear end that I can swap, but would rather not if there is an easier way to get the axle out. Is there a secret retaining clip that the manual doesn't mention? Or does anyone have any tips on getting a stubborn axle out? Thanks in advance for the help.

[ARCHINSTL]

One of mine was fair rusted in place - it took a mighty swing of the slide hammer to loosen. There are only the four bolts that hold the retainer to the axle housing.
https://tercel4wd.com/forums/viewtopic.php? ... ilit=slide
and
https://tercel4wd.com/forums/viewtopic.php? ... ilit=slide
Tom M.

[Petros]

sometimes these get really stuck. There is no clip or retainer other than the 4 12mm bolts holding on the retainer and the brake backing plate. Try soaking the joint in ATF (best penetrating oil ever), and than putting a slide hammer on it. If brake fluid leaks down into that joint (like if the brakes were bled without a hose on the bleeder valve it will dribble all over the connection), it will corrode the bearing into its seat. The bearing is a tight net fit into the end of the axle housing, and any corrosion will make it difficult to remove.

Usually there is no issue and just yanking on the axle frees it, or at most some side ways taps with a hammer will free it. But occupationally moisture or brake fluid gets in the joint and causes it to rust up, than it just take brute force to free it.

Good luck.

[jebudallaha]

Thanks all. I guess I'll give it another go with the slide hammer, and if it doesn't give after that I'll swap back ends.