The Stovebolt Site Forums The Parking Lot Big Bolts Rear axle nut wrench

When I had to pull my rear drum off I had to make an axle nut wrench out of pipe, it has 6 lugs, and has a 2 3/8" inside diameter. It worked, but would like to buy a proper socket. My local parts guys couldn't find one, and the only one that I found on the internet that might work is actually for a military vehicle. It was on the site, Vehicles of Victory. What do you guys who have removed the nut in the past used?

Super 55 do a google search for "6 slot axle nut wrench" there are few different ones out there the one I have is from snap on tools.
DS

we used to use a chisel tap it against the edge lightly until the nut loosens a little keep pressure on wheel so it doesn't bind nut and spin it rest of way off with fingers. tighten same way spin wheel until it feels like theres no play but that the bearings aren't binding. make sure to bend your lock tabs back in place. Not pretty but it works. with driving the seal in we used block of wood between hammer and seal again not pretty but works if you don't have proper seal driver.

OTC has about the best selection of spindle nut sockets.

I found a 6 pronged one for my rear axle, sounds like the same size as yours, at Advanced Auto. It was listed for use on the front hub of a ford 4x4. good price too, considering I have only needed it once.

Grigg

I used a bronze drift punch, but looking at the abuse the nuts already had,... Screwdrivers, chisels, whatever seems to work juuuuuust fine, ish,...

If you can get one off try your local NAPA & see if they can order you the correct one. I have seen a couple at the one here, just not needed since my nuts are already trashed.

I have the tool but seldom use it. If the threads are good it just takes a tap with a long tapered punch & once its loose you can spin it right off. Ive done hundreds of them like that & never damaged anything. If you have the hex or octagen nuts like Ford & Dodge use you will need a special wrench to do it right.

I know what y'all are saying about the punch, I have done it that way too.

If you want to follow the instructions word for word you will need a socket to apply enough torque to seat the bearings if you replaced them, then back it off and just about finger tight. I am not saying this is necessary all the time, but the sockets do have a use. I am glad I bought one for my truck.

Another time when you will need the correct socket is on newer axles with the self locking nuts. It requires the prongs on the socket to disengage the lock so the nut can be turned off.

I've got one of those tools for the front hub nuts on a Ford Bronco II 4x4 that I used to own. Sounds like it's a good thing that I've hung onto it.