FAQ 216

Question: I'm having a difficult time removing the rear axle nut in order to remove the hubs to replace the brake shoes and wheel cylinders on a 1969 VW Bug. Any suggestions on removal?

Answer: Both nuts are normal thread - turn counter-clockwise to remove. I checked the Muir book to be sure (and that's what I remember although I've only had mine off once).

Before removing the nut, mark it with some paint on the nut and the spindle so you can tighten it back to the same place. Remove the cotter pin.

There are two common ways: buy a 36mm hub socket (which will be 1/2 inch drive). Front wheel drive spindle sockets are usually available at places like AutoZone and Sears. Get a 1/2 inch drive breaker bar and attach a cheater (piece of pipe). Get someone to sit in the car with the brakes on, and you basically put all your weight (carefully) on the cheater. You'll probably have to stand on the cheater, and bounce. Needless to say, you need a really strong breaker bar.

The second method is a little simpler. there's a 36mm wrench-like tool with flat surfaces for hammering where the handle would normally be. It's only about 6 inches long and you pound on it with a hammer. Works great. It's only a few dollars from any VW parts supplier.

Of course, there is one more way: get a big, powerful air impact wrench, set it at max and back the nuts off. I have a 40 dollar air wrench rated at 275 foot pounds at 90 psi. I had to set the compressor to at least 90 psi and it still took almost a minute of the wrench hammering away before the nuts started to back off. That uses a TON of air so a small compressor has trouble keeping up.

Get the Muir book. Fantastic. It describes the breaker bar method, and even has an amusing illustration.

"How to Keep Your Volkswagen Alive" My review: http://laudeman.com/bug_b_1562614800.html

BTW, while you have the rear drums off, it might be wise to just replace the rear wheel cylinders. I think new cylinders are only about each, and you don't want to have to go back in there due to a leaking wheel cylinder.

Drop me a note if your brakes feel soft after bleeding. I have some ideas.

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