Driveshaft taking out issues!

[Brian O Conner]

I meant the drive axle shaft. Okay, so I took off the rims, Took off the bolt that hooks up to the driveshaft on the hub and the cotton pin. I took out the tranny but no matter how hard I try I can not hit the driveshaft out with a brass mallet. I dont know what the deal is with this. Is there more to it? Do I have to take the tie rod out as well to take out the axles? Anyways guys be really discriptive here or add some techniques if I am on the right track. Thanks community Jonathan Morasco

 

[bryanwheat]

It is likely seized in the hub. They usually have to be cut apart.

 

[twicks69]

Jonathan, yes, unfortunately this a very common issue with these cars because Mitsubishi never lubed or anti-seized up the splines from the factory. It is seized and you will likely need to take the entire spindle with axle out and use a 40-50 ton hydraulic press, or use an oxyacetylene torch with a Hub Tamer.

 

[bullettdsm]

It is seized and you will likely need to take the entire spindle with axle out and use a 40-50 ton hydraulic press, or use an oxyacetylene torch with a Hub Tamer.

And sometimes even that doesn't do it

MB

 

[Brian O Conner]

Guy at work said to use a 12 pound sludge hammer if I am not going to reuse the old axles. Will this be a bad Idea?

 

[twicks69]

Well, you will mushroom your axle splines making it even more difficult to remove. Your best bet will be like I described above. Large press, heat, and patience. Otherwise, you will likely require a new spindle, wheel bearing, and axle if it is severely seized.

Either way, you will be replacing the wheel bearing and axle however you work on it.

When you install new parts, be sure to use anti-seize or a quality synthetic grease to fully lubricate the splines of the axle and the splines of the wheel bearing to prevent this from happening again.

Like I said, this is a notorious Mitsubishi problem, and we all deal with it. It seriously sucks.

 

[thomcasey]

Penetrating oil and an Air Hammer worked for me.