Help!

[Rowley-Birkin]

Hi folks, I am trying to get the diff off the chim to overhaul it and also replace the cv joints. I can't for the life of me get the four front cap heads undone no matter what I try has anyone got any ideas because I am proper stuck - help!

[phazed]

Piece of cake.

Remove the locking nuts at the back of the bolts then you can unscrew the cap bolts.

The cap bolts screw into the threaded diff.

You can't unscrew the cap bolts as the locking nuts are holding them tight.

[Rowley-Birkin]

Yeah I have got the two nuts of the bottom ones but the cap screws wont budge. I have had an impact gun on them and alsorts but to no avail. I would get the bottles on them but they are right next to the fuel pump, fuel lines and the fuel filter.

[Rowley-Birkin]

I have soaked them in wd40 as well, I will have another go tomorrow but they do seem pretty seized.

[phazed]

A long lever is always going to work better.

I can't remember if there is room but a small stilsons on the cap to shift it would work.

If not, pm Sardonicus, he would know.

[Tyre Tread]

Rowley-Birkin said:

I have soaked them in wd40 as well, I will have another go tomorrow but they do seem pretty seized.

WD40 is crap as a releasing fluid. Get some proper releasing fluid on them and soak them a few times over 24 hours.

[Rowley-Birkin]

Got some deb context so will soak them in thAt and see in the morning

[davelittlewood]

I've used plusgas, works wonders.

Just make sure you've got a decent hex tool in the socket!

[Cokes]

Also make sure the hex hole is cleared of all debris so you will have the best chance of no slipping.
I know it's probably teaching you to suck eggs but thought its best to say anyway.

[fausTVR]

+1 for plus gas. Also try tightening before undoing, sometimes cracks the seal. Use all the leverage the space allows you with handle extensions. I expect you've tried harsh language?

[Rowley-Birkin]

LOL, oh I've used some harsh language all right! Soaked in plus gas all night but still solid this morning - Bugger!

[Tyre Tread]

keep soaking them and if you can find a way to leave the bolts under pressure it may help.

Alternatively shocking by hitting then or something onto them can work to help release them.

[Rowley-Birkin]

Phew, diff is out and I have started to strip it. Does anyone know if the output flanges just pull/knock out? It would appear so as there is no visible circlip or anything but thought I would check with the gurus on here before I dive in and wreck something.