I've got a two problems with a 95 Camry, 4 cyl, automatic, American made.
#1 On the passenger side there is a snap ring that keeps a bearing on the axle in a support about a foot from the transaxle. This snap ring is supposed to be squeezed with pliers and be slipped out of its groove so you can pull the axle out.
One side of the snap ring isn't budging. The other side is loose. I've pried it out--with trouble--about 1/3 of the way around the axle. The stuck side seems to be frozen in place or wedged in. I've tried tapping on the axle lightly and pushing/pulling on it. No change.
I've tried removing the dustshield in case it was preventing the ring from moving. Nope.
Do you have to do anything special to get the snap ring out? What would you recommend I try next? I'm out of ideas.
Well, I'm hesitantly considering removing the rear underside engine mount, which is what the bearing support is part of. Frankly, I'm not sure whether that would create worse problems or that I could get it back in place without an engine hoist. The bolts are in awkward places.
#2 I'm having trouble getting the remanufactured driver's side half axle back in. I've pushed, wiggled, turned the axle as I push, and tried to reinsert it, but can't get it to snap back in.
I've heard that the ring might be too big, but I'm not sure that's the issue, especially since the original axle also won't go back in.
What method can I use to coax the axle back in so the little ring clicks into place?
Can you use a mallet on the axle end? Or can I use a bar and hammer to pound on the ridges in the innermost CV joint casing to try to drive it in?
I'll be very happy for any advice. Thanks in advance.