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'09 forester front wheel bearing hub assembly STUCK!

('09-'13)
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10K views 5 replies 6 participants last post by  Raycfe  
B
#1 ·
so, there i was watching a youtube vid on how to accomplish the replacement of the hub assembly of a subaru, and once the guy took those last four bolts out that hold the piece in place, it gently falls out into his hand...i'm now thinking he must be in southern cal, because once i took off the last 4 bolts, my midwest-winter flavored hub assembly seems to be welded in place with the expected corrosion. it's only being held in place by a 1/4" lip that inserts into the 'hole'. i've used Blaster PB along with a few good whacks of a 8lb sledge, but it's a no-go so far. i tried an air hammer and that moved some stuff around, but it's still stuck in place. the easy part was using that air hammer to push that yolk back, but it's still hard. i gave it a good dousing of PB and will let it sit overnight and give it a few more sledge hammer whacks in the morning.

does anyone have any tips on getting this piece off? heat? more whacking? maybe coming from behind with an air hammer? i can move the yolk out of the way just enough to do it.

anyway, it's a good workout, saving me hundred$ and thanks in advanced for any tips!
berbes
 
#3 ·
I'm looking at replacing the bearings on mine and laughed at that youtube video... you're right, most of those videos are from people in the desert. I think it's because everyone else is struggling with stuck bolts and parts, rather than making a video.

Anyhow, if I were in your position, I'd say use the acetone/trans mix rather than PB, and hammer away.

I know it probably doesn't help, but this issue and the issue with seized pinch bolts at the balljoint was the reason I purchased new knuckles for this upcoming job. They really werent all that expensive....maybe your last resort.
 
#4 ·
You might borrow a puller from your auto parts store - something like this:

Image


Screw it on tightly, put some tension against the axle, then strike the hub with a hammer. Tighten a bit, strike, repeat etc. Be patient, use plenty of PB Blaster or Liquid Wrench or WD40.

As for steering knuckles, God's gift to Subaru owner's is this 3/4" ball joint remover from Harbor Freight:

Image


It is only about $20, but you might be able to borrow something similar from an auto parts store. This remover won't damage the rubber boots. The technique is same as above - put it on, tighten, strike with hammer. Tighten, strike, repeat, etc. I just had my front hubs loose (changing axles) and this tool worked like a charm. I've used it for both steering knuckles and lower ball joints - wouln't leave home without it!
 
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