got it done, hardest part was getting the hub off and then getting the new u joint in, i just hope that seal is alright

 

Make sure to top off the gear lube in the diff, and you will know in relatively short order if the seal survived.

 

i dont get how you guys have such a hard time breaking the hub nut loose. ive never had one single problem removing it with my impact gun. takes 2 second, and ive never had to spray it with any penetrant.

last time i did axle joints, i used my 3/4", 1/2" drive impact socket, and a 3lb sledge. came apart easily.

 

i agree it is not a big job the hardest part is gettin the hub away from the knuckle and that is not even that hard

 

^ galling, rust, seized up, lack of heavy duty tools. both can be killers.

 

i just back the bolts out an 1/8" or so at a time, and use an air hammer, take no time at all to remove the hub.

i live in NH, you should see the amount of salt they put on the roads here. never had a problem taking parts apart whatsoever.
dont have any"heavy duty" tools. my impact gun is only good for 625 lb ft. from cornwell. everything else is either husky(home depot) or kobalt(lowes).

 

Ok, minor thread jack here.... My apologies.

How do you like the Kobalt tools? I am in need of a new tool supplier since Sears moved out of the area..... and we have a Lowes not that far away. The tools seem to be of good quality, and they aren't hideously over-priced..... any issues with them??

 

none so far, i only have a couple, my air hammer, and air ratchet, both of which i find to be pretty decent. i also have a socket set made by kobalt. again, great quality. havent had to warranty a single thing yet. home depot on the other hand. their air tools suck! no two ways about it. their hand tools are ok, ive had to warranty my breaker bar, and a 1/2 to 3/8's adapter a couple times, but other than that. theyve been ok.

 

Cool. Thanks. I think I have found my next source for tools.

 

LOL, compared to a $5 ratchet/socket set from harbor freight, i'd call that a heavy duty tool.