Half Shaft Removal

[Scrrem]

Getting ready to pull my rust/dusty old steel half shafts....any words of wisdom besides "Lots of WD-40"? I am praying I don't break or strip any of the strap bolts trying to loosen them.
Rich

[Jagdpanzer]

This is the way I do it:

• Put the rear of the car up on jack stands so both axles can be freely rotated.
• Remove both wheels and spare tire carrier.
• Disconnect the spring bolt, axle tie rod and spindle rod from the suspension knuckle on both sides.
• Remove the U-joint strap bolts using a 5/16" or 8mm six point socket.
• Pull the suspension knuckle outward to allow enough clearance for the half shaft to be removed.

Here is a link with some good pics and details:
http://personal.tmlp.com/scorp/vette...nts/index.html
However, I believe it is easier to disconnect the spindle rod at the suspension knuckle rather than at the camber bolt as this guy shows.
BTW I have several spare bolts and straps on hand in case you need them.

[Scrrem]

Originally Posted by Jagdpanzer

However, I believe it is easier to disconnect the spindle rod at the suspension knuckle rather than at the camber bolt as this guy shows.

Thanks Phil, I was wondering if that made a difference. I have seen that documentation and I saw you and Jim disconnect yours at the knuckle at the track. That also saves you trying to get the camber setting back in check, not that it's that difficult. I guess you just have to remember to mark it . I bought all new bolts and straps, mine are so rusty I wasn't even going to try and re-use them.
Rich

Originally Posted by Scrrem

Thanks Phil, I was wondering if that made a difference. I have seen that documentation and I saw you and Jim disconnect yours at the knuckle at the track. That also saves you trying to get the camber setting back in check, not that it's that difficult. I guess you just have to remember to mark it . I bought all new bolts and straps, mine are so rusty I wasn't even going to try and re-use them.
Rich

The straps and bolts can be re-used. A wire wheel takes care of everything on there. Make sure you use a dab of loctite when putting the bolts back in.

I do remove the knuckle as well when doing work like this. Just makes the whole job easier.

[Scrrem]

Well, got drivers side done...only took me 6 hours . Now that I kind of know what I'm doing, hopefully, the passenger side goes a little faster.
Rich

[Scrrem]

Well, got the shafts swapped. Not too difficult once you get the hang of it. A pic of what came out of the Z and what went back in...what a difference.
Rich

[LGAFF]

Any idea of the weight savings?

[Scrrem]

Originally Posted by LGAFF

Any idea of the weight savings?

No, didn't take the time to weight them(guess I should have), but my guess would be 5-10 lbs per shaft. Those steel shafts were HEAVY compareed to their aluminum counterparts.

[QB93Z]

Good job Rich. That is a great improvement.

Jim