Need to replace front hubs on 2003 4X4

[royweaver1]

Got 2003 2500 4X4 - removed 4 retaing bolts and axle nut - tried 10 inch 3-jaw puller, no luck. Can it just be frozen in place by rust? First time try at replacement. Any suggestions ?

 

[cerberusiam]

Leave the 4 bolts on the back side of the hub in and back them out so you have about and inch of space between the head and the spindle.



IIRC, A deep impack socket on the bolt head should contact the axle housing when you turn the wheel. With the engine running ease the wheel over until the socket contacts the housing then give short sharp turns further in the same direction.



You may have to work your way back an forth a couple times until it pops but it will usually break it loose. Don't try to do it all at once or go too much turning the wheel. The power steering has the ability to snap a tie rod end if your not careful. BE CAREFUL doing this or you will create more work.



Sometimes a little help with a BFH when the pressure is against the bolt works wonders. A sharp rap or 2 with pressure persuades the worst ones to give up. A helper is invaluable in these cases.