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Any suggestions on removing C3 1/2 shafts. I need to replace the u joints but getting the 48 year old rusted bolts out on the outer flange loose without stripping the bolt head is a problem. The working space is tight and it looks to be more of a challenge then I expected (I have bent the french lock tabs outward to gain access to the bolts and sprayed the bolts with PB blaster). Any tackle this job and have some tips?
Any suggestions on removing C3 1/2 shafts. I need to replace the u joints but getting the 48 year old rusted bolts out on the outer flange loose without stripping the bolt head is a problem. The working space is tight and it looks to be more of a challenge then I expected (I have bent the french lock tabs outward to gain access to the bolts and sprayed the bolts with PB blaster). Any tackle this job and have some tips?
You're doing the right thing by using the PB Blaster (or WD-40) a day ahead of time to penetrate the rust. Be sure to use a 6-point socket to avoid rounding off the corners of the bolts and make sure the socket is ALL the way on. I always use 6-point sockets as a first choice then use 12-point sockets when it doesn't matter.
Use penetrant for a few days (put more on each day), use a 6-point impact socket, and only apply removal torque up to about 150% of normal installation torque. If they don't come loose, you may want to put that socket on an impact driver (socket on driver, install on bolt head, give the driver a good shot with hammer). The instantaneous shock loading will usually get the bolt to break free.
I would not continually hammer the bolt with a pneumatic or electric impact gun. That can eventually round the points on the bolt head.
As a last resort, you can get the impact gun (not impact driver) ready, then heat each bolt head [locally] with a torch till very hot and hit it with the impact gun.
Any suggestions on removing C3 1/2 shafts. I need to replace the u joints but getting the 48 year old rusted bolts out on the outer flange loose without stripping the bolt head is a problem. The working space is tight and it looks to be more of a challenge then I expected (I have bent the french lock tabs outward to gain access to the bolts and sprayed the bolts with PB blaster). Any tackle this job and have some tips?
I soaked them for at least a week (several applications) with PB Blaster, then used an impact wrench. If I remember correctly I needed a universal joint to get the right angle, and make sure that the socket is really on the bolt head. Mine did not need heat applied but in other situations on my car heat did help so it might be a worth a try.
68 half shaft removal
