[RoryBellows]

Dana 30
I can't get the passenger side spindle nut to budge. The socket I got from Quadratec is a POS. The socket fits but wobbles because it is tapered. I got the drivers side off, by the way when I loosened the outer nut the inner nut I could take off with my hand. I grinded about 1/4 off of the socket and it still wobbles. Any tips for removing the spindle nut besides a chisel? Or do I have to buy the $28.00 Napa 2 3/32 spindle socket? The socket would be perfect for the inner nut but on the outer nut it is too loose. ALSO how do you tell if wheel bearings need replaced? Someone must know what I am talking about on this one.

 

[Guest]

I have the same trouble with mine. Buy the Napa one or use a chisel. I use the chisel method right now, but I am saving my pennies for the Napa socket.

 

[283]

Both inner and outer spindle nuts should be the same size. I've never had a problem with the cheapie spindle nut socket. I used the chisel method before I got the socket, but if it's stuck that tight I don't know if it'll work.

If you're worried about the wheel bearings just go ahead and replace them; they're not all that expensive. Just remember to get a new seal, too. But when you pull the hub and look at a bearing, if the rollers are pitted it needs to be replaced.

Ken Linzmeyer

 

[445]

He's a crazy idea, take a penny or dime and stick it in the socket and see if that does the trick. I know it's been done before. If not take out the chisle or spend the cash for a socket, might as well get a good one and throw it in your tool box, makes it a whole lot easier to change an axle shaft or wheel bearings.

BarrelRoll

 

[Rio_Grande]

I use a Lisel brand socket a breaker bar and a 4 foot piece pf pipe, Just make sure you turn th right direction...

As for bearings Grab the wheel befor loosing in anythin but after jacking it up see if it has any wobble by grabbing top and bottom. Wobble = new berrings needed.. Least you do not have a TJ they cost 100.00 a side..

 

[233]

I've found that if you use a long cheater bar, it's much easier to put an even steady force on it and it should break loose.
Make certain that you concentrate effort with one hand to keep the socket securely on the nut while pulling the bar with the other.

 

[RoryBellows]

Came home from class tonight and tried the socket once again to no avail. Broke out a chisel and after several whacks with my mini sledge--victory. I thought using a chisel would be difficult and screw up the nut but it is easy and the nut is reusable although I may replace it anyway. The chisel method is now my preferred method, easy and dependable. My inner bearing had slight brown discoloration but no pitting or marring so I guess it's good to go. Thanks for the info and tips

 

[Olin18]

I think it has been brought up a couple times in the last few weeks that it is very cool when someone posts a problem, gets help from the board and comes back and posts the solution, and the final outcome. I just wanted to say taht I enjoy reading posts like this also. It really helps the jeep brain grow. Well done !!