Trouble Removing Pinion Gear

[sen2two]

I have a complete explorer rear and im pulling out the 3.73 ring and pinion to put in my fox. I dissasembled the fox 8.8 first with no problems. When it came time to remove the pinion gear from the exploder rear, it dosnt want to come out. On the fox rear all I did was remove the 1-1/16 nut and tapped it lightly and it fell right out into my hand.

I was banging on the exlorer pinion pretty hard (piece of wood to protect the threaded area) and nothing. It's been soaking in PB blaster for a while and maybe that will help.

But just incase, is there something else in the explorer rear that retains the pinion gear?

 

[Fordfreak93]

Does the pinion spin at all? Could just be corroded and stubborn. The 8.8 is the same as the fox (except the splines). The pinion nut should be the only thing holding it in place.

 

[RangerJoe]

What he said. Makes me wonder if the bearings are seized up? Did the seal appear to be in good shape? A slight tap should release it. I am a big fan of using heat to get things apart. You could try a propane torch to expand the bearing and help it come apart. Just don't plan on reusing the bearing afterwards and I would closely inspect the pinion as well.

Joe

 

[sen2two]

I got my war hammer out, and after a few hard hits, it popped right out...

thanks.

 

[Grabbin' Asphalt]

Yes the BFH time!!!

 

[sen2two]

Just to be sure, If I set my preload on the pinion nut, and there is some in and out play, is there a problem? Or is this normal?