ok today i replaced the inner and outer axle shaft boots. Now i cant get the shaft to go back in. I cant get it past the snap ring. I tried for over an hour trying to force it over the ring but i cant get it. Does anyone have any ideas. If i cant get it do you think it will be ok to drive it without the shaft in for 5mi to work. Then i will have someone at work get it in for me.

 

Got any pics? You say you can't get it past the snap ring, but I would think the snap ring should be off-so pics would help me see what's going on.

 

the snap ring holds the axle shaft in the differential. There is no way to put it on after since the shaft will be over it. I dont have any pics. I can try to get some tomorrow.

 

Put it in as far as you can by hand and then put a piece of wood like a 2x4 up to the inner part... then gently tap it in with a hammer. DO NOT drive the truck with no shaft end installed in the wheel hub or you will ruin the unit bearing.

 

i will try that later tonight but if i cant get it im gonna have to drive it. I dont care if i ruin the bearing since i have a lifetime warranty but hope it doesn't fail before i get there

 

I see what you're saying now...Hope you get it figured out.

 

Yep, use a piece of wood and a good hammer. Tap is not what I have done in the past, but a few good raps with the hammer is all it took squeeze the snap ring into the starting taper on the end of the CV shaft.

 

oki finally got it. I had a buddy hold it while i hit it a few times with an 8lb sledge. But now my axle nut is striped. So i have to get up early and see if i can get one before work.