Axle removal-advice needed
 

I’m in the process of refreshing my suspension on an 01 2.7, and while pulling the rear apart found torn outer CV boots. I looked into replacing the boots and repacking and the outer apparently can’t be rebuilt. So I found a good set of axles off a 40k mile car and will replace them. My car has 130k.

My dilemma and where I need help, my suspension is apart. I’d really rather not put it all together to break the axle nuts loose only to take it apart again. Have any of you found an impact gun to work? I have a relatively cheap 20v one that won’t break them loose. I tried using a breaker bar against the parking brake but it won’t hold. Any advice or direction is welcome. Thanks!!

Watch this video at 5:50 : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fzUCIkwsmMk

It will gives you an idea.


Good luck !

My 1/2" dewalt took them out like nothing

I've used air impact guns to remove axle nuts many times. I've never tried with a 20v, but it's worth a shot. To give your 20v a little help, you can try a nail punch or something to spread open the dimple. With my air gun I don't need to do that, I can just zip it off.

Yeah unfortunately mines a Harbor Freight cheapo. It works for “most” stuff I need. May have to invest in a real gun today.

I have the HF Earthquake XT. It has done the job nicely. It zaps off axle nuts and frame bolts in a breeze. I don't know how long it'll last, and it may not have the torque of a Snap-on (although they claim it does), but you can't beat the price. Snap-on definitely sounds better.

And the HF Impact socket have been indestructible so far! I've had them for several years.