air hammer question

Aug 26, 2005 4 Replies
N

'94 Camry half shaft replacement, (passenger side with carrier bearing)



Always like to do my own work, but considering just paying the dealer for 1.6 hrs. on this one, because I've read numerous complaints about getting that bearing to release from its cast iron housing around the shaft. Seems people remove the snap ring easily enough, but the bearing shell is often stuck requiring lots of banging with makeshift tools to get it out. Also, I don't have a small puller to remove the tie rod end and wondered if the air hammer may work there also. Any help appreciated.



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B

I have a gut feeling that if the tie rod end are rusted and are too tight, you could mar the stud after accomplishing your task.

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A

Tie rods are easy. You just need a hammer. How you use the hammer is not obvious. You don't pound on the threaded end! You bang on the end of the arm that recieves the threaded end. Keep the nut on the end of the tie rod incase you miss your target with the hammer. A long time ago a mechanic friend taught me this trick, and I have used it many times.

----------------- Alex

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S

As for removing ball joints, I have had very good luck loosening the nut (do not remove the nut - you'll need it to protect the threads). Being careful not to damage the grease seal, install a pickle fork AND a screw-type ball joint puller. Put pressure on the pickle fork while tightening the joint puller.

I have released the most stubborn ball joints with this method without needing a buddy to help and without breaking anything (on me or the car).

Also, keeping the nut loosely attached to the ball joint will keep the arm from flying if you have a sudden release.

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