Hub Flange Removal

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camino70

camino70

10 Year
Joined
Jul 1, 2015
Threads
51
Messages
1,338
Location
Canton, GA
I went to check the front bearings of our newer to us LX470 after some issues with steering rack bushings/etc and found that I had NOT repacked the bearings when I originally got the truck and changed fluids/t's/etc, shame on me. I removed the wheels, loosened the 14mm nuts, backed them out to flush with studs, smacked them with a hammer to dislodge the cones. Now I cannot get the flange off, it appears there is some grey sealant instead of a gasket in between. I have now spent more time prying at this thing that I spent on replacing the rack bushings and more busted/bleeding knuckles....

What did the previous owner/shop use and how do I defeat it?!
 
camino70 said:
I went to check the front bearings of our newer to us LX470 after some issues with steering rack bushings/etc and found that I had NOT repacked the bearings when I originally got the truck and changed fluids/t's/etc, shame on me. I removed the wheels, loosened the 14mm nuts, backed them out to flush with studs, smacked them with a hammer to dislodge the cones. Now I cannot get the flange off, it appears there is some grey sealant instead of a gasket in between. I have now spent more time prying at this thing that I spent on replacing the rack bushings and more busted/bleeding knuckles....

What did the previous owner/shop use and how do I defeat it?!
Click to expand...



I can't imagine someone using FIPG, or some other sealant for the flange. I'm
assuming you've gone around the perimeter with a brass drift, and or tried a sharp chisel? Careful application of a little heat may do it too.
 
You didn't mention it but I'm sure you removed the "C" clip, correct?
 
Forgetting the C clip mentioned by badlander is like something I'd do. In working to R&R the CV for a rebooting, my flange was like you describe; however with the use of a sharp wood chisel followed by using a thin then thicker scraper I was able to get it off. Turned out it was just a very tight fit, no sealant. My gasket did not survive the experience so I was glad I had purchased a couple just in case.
 
YouTube Jonseys 100 Series brake and bearing. First hit.

Good vid
 
I took the dust cover off earlier (i work in stages with the little ones around, that's my excuse) and put it back on without removing the clip. Even writing my process didn't trigger anything. And there was no sealant.

I'm not too great at removing dust covers, any harm in using pliers to spin them? That seems to help me along.
 
Remember that snap ring is not reusable according to FSM. I actually do reuse them, making sure to squeeze/bend ring tight "close gap before install".

Most import is checking snap ring gap (side to side play). To wide a gap cause a great deal of damage.
 
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The snap ring is easy to bend too much getting it off, even with the right tool. Given the critical importance of fit, I strongly recommend new ones.
 
camino70 said:
I took the dust cover off earlier (i work in stages with the little ones around, that's my excuse) and put it back on without removing the clip. Even writing my process didn't trigger anything. And there was no sealant.

I'm not too great at removing dust covers, any harm in using pliers to spin them? That seems to help me along.
Click to expand...

I use a small screwdriver and tap it between the flange and dust cap. This way it will create a indent on the lip for easy removal. I then use a slighty bigger once there is a gap.

Its just a cover, if you don't mind the marks you're creating then go for it.
 
I did pause a moment because I didn't really want to scratch the $3 dust cap that will be covered with the center cap.
 
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