How to remove axle nut when replacing CV joint boot or axle

Carmakers usually use three types of locking axle nuts: 1) Nuts with cotter keys, 2) Staked nuts, or 3) Prevailing torque nuts.

The staked and prevailing torque nuts are the most difficult to remove.

Here’s what you need to remove an axle nut

• 3/4″ drive x 40″ breaker bar
• 3/4″ to 1/2″ drive adapter
• Pin punch
• Large screwdriver
• Proper size deep socket

Remove staked axle nut

Step 1: Unstake the nut

If your vehicle has a staked axle nut, you must unstake it before trying to remove it. Using a small pin punch and hammer, bend the deformed edge of the nut out of the keyway on the axle shaft. Punch it all the way out so the nut can rotate freely.

Step 2 — Apply rust penetrant

The nut and axle shaft threads are most likely rusted, so treat the nut and threads with a rust penetrant like PB Blaster, not WD-40.

Step 3 — Lock the wheel

If you’re working on a front wheel, leave the rotor and brake caliper bracket in place. Secure the rotor with one lug nut. Then stick a large screwdriver in the brake rotor cooling vane.

If you’re working on a  rear wheel with unvented rotors, you have three choices:

1) reinstall the wheel/tire and pop out the center plug on the wheel to access the axle nut. Lower the vehicle so the tire touches the ground.

2) Apply the parking brake to hold the rotor.

3. Install lug nuts on the wheel studs and use a large crowbar between the hub center and two studs (the lug nuts protect the threads on the stud) and use the crowbar to hold the wheel while trying to loosen the axle nut.

Step 4 — Remove the axle nut

If your impact wrench doesn’t work to remove the nut, you’ll have to use a 3/4″ drive breaker bar. Don’t waste your time with a 1/2″ breaker bar; they usually break.

Connect a 3/4″ to 1/2″ drive adapter and then the deep hex socket.

Don’t reuse prevailing torque axle nuts

Prevailing torque axle nuts are deformed when manufactured. As they’re installed, they change shape to match the axle diameter. They are a one-time use fastener; they cannot be re-used. Buy a replacement axle nut at any auto parts store.

Install new staked nut

Stake the new axle nut

Torque the new axle nut to spec and then stake it using a small chisel and hammer

©, 2023 Rick Muscoplat

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Posted on May 8, 2023 by Rick Muscoplat