Guys - need a quick opinion... did a few searches but couldnt come up with anything concrete...

Been stripping a 97 850 down to the frame... I have everything removed in the wheel well but I cannot for the life of me remove the driver side axle out of the transmission... it seems to be stuck. I dont want to pry too hard in case there is a C-clip im missing or something like that.

So am I supposed to pry the axle out of the transmission? the passenger side axle popped right out, it was like butter...

Any input appreciated!

Last week I had to remove the axle from my 850.
The big screwdriver did not do the trick.
I positioned a chisel between the transmission and the axle, with only one medium hammer blow the axle retainer ring came out of its place and the axle separated nicely.
I looked for the pics I took and I did not get one for that portion of the job.
I got everything else documented.

Yes, that axle can be a bit of a bear to get out. I get most of mine out with just the big ass screwdriver/prybar but every now and then I have to get the special tool out that was designed for this. I you can not pop it out with the big screwdriver then you will need the tool, I'll bet you can get it out if you try hard enough though. And no, there is no missing circlip anywhere.

Mark

allright, thanks for that... I'll go nuts tomorrow and use my real prybar

In extreme cases I have seen and used Vtor's method. I have never had to do it on a Volvo though. A word to the wise on that method though, I have seen someone crack a case doing it. If you do it make sure that you use TWO chisles, one on either side. This will ensure that the axle is driven out equally and not at an angle. It bound up on the other guy and cracked the case. The chisles are simply being used as wedges, a simple inclined plain. Simple as this device is it can and will develope huge amounts of pressure fast, so use one on either side and go easy with it.

Also, I find that when using a pry bar you want a sharp pop or snap to get it out. I have not had alot of luck putting constant pressure on it, I pop them out.

Mark

there is another alternative. There are auto parts stores out there that rent the appropriate tools. There is a tool out there that will slip under the cv joint and you attach a slide hammer to it and go at it. This will eliminate you damaging the case or seal in the trans.


Also if you look closely, sometimes other manufacturers cast pry points on the transmission for you. You may want to look closer to see if the volvo has one.

Juan