Ball joint and U-joint Removal

[BigHemi353]

Ive searched this over and over again and cant find the answer so I'll ask you guys. I have a 10-bolt front axle in my truck and I am replacing all the ball joints, bearings and universals joints as I am restoring my truck. I have looked at this thing over and over again and cant seem to find out how to get the axle shaft out to get access to the u-joints. I have the rotor and backing plate off as of now.  I assume after I get the axle shafts out of there then the ball joints will be easy to replace. Can anyone shed any light on this topic? Thank you. Andy

[Blazin]

You need to take the spinled off. It is held on by the same nuts that hold the backing plate on. A slide hammer that threads onto the spindle is the tool of choice. But a large brass hammer will knock it loose too. Once you get it loose one way stick a small pry bar behind it and knock it back the other way then it should slid right off. Don't hammer where the bearing rides. hit it in the middle between where they ride.After that the axle will slide right out. Remover the grease fitting if it has one in the axle joint cap first.

[Irish_Alley]

you sometimes have to turn the spindle to get the hole to line up so the shaft slides out if its turned a little one way or the other it makes the hole smaller and it wont come out. everyone iv taking off or seen taking off we just use a chisel and a hammer and slowly work the spindle off.

[BigHemi353]

Great, ill go to the shop and see what I can do. Thanks alot! Andy

[justinm]

you can also screw the two spindle nuts back onto the spindle and hit the nuts from several different directions. just be careful to not hit any of the threads. Once it is loose use a pry bar to pry it off.