Rear axles seized onto hubs...Can I still remove the spindle?

[Woodsy0]

As stated, my rear axles are completely seized onto their respective hubs (that makes 3 of 4 axles total that have no desire to leave their current location), but I'm trying to take out the spindle in order to press out/replace the three bushings on it with the ES poly's. I'm just a little confused as to the design of the rear suspension...Even though my axle and hub are more or less one complete piece now, that can't be separated, is their any way to remove the spindle from the hub/axle without having to remove the axle from the hub?

If not, is the only remedy to buy a new axle/hub/spindle from a junkyard?

Thanks,
Scott

 

[SILV BLT]

I'd say you probably have two options. One, you can replace the bushings while the hub is still on the car. It's a little more tedious, but that's what I've been doing and it is possible. Torch out the old bushings, cut out the shell, lube it up and use a nice big c-clamp and some boards to press in the new one. Your other option would be to remove the hub and axle together. Pop the axle out of the rear diff and take them out as a unit. Good luck!

Jason

 

[Woodsy0]

I guess I'll try doing them while still on the car...In your experience, how long did it take you to burn out the old bushings? I was sitting there for quite some time with a propane torch and they still wouldn't budge after heating them and then torqueing a ball joint press with an impact wrench. The front bushings install was the only modification I've had to pay a mechanic to do for me, since I felt like I was getting nowhere without a hydraulic press. I'd like to change out the rears myself if I'm able.