How to remove an axle nut

Here are some tips on how to remove an axle nuts, even if the axle threads are rusted

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. But I’ll show you the easiest way to remove an axle nut.

Step by step guide to removing a staked axle nut

Here are the tools you’ll need

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

Step 1: Un-stake the nut

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 to the axle nut and axle threads

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 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 nut.

Step 4 — Remove the 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.

Installing new axle nut

Don’t reuse prevailing torque 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 nut

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

WARNING: Never use an impact wrench to tighten the axle nut

Never EVER use an impact wrench to tighten an axle nut unless you purposely intend to damage the wheel bearing. This isn’t a joke. The repetitive shock from an impact wrench can cause permanent indentations in the bearing races. this kind of bearing damage is called brinelling and will eventually lead to wheel bearing noise requiring replacement. lled brinelling.

©, 2023 Rick Muscoplat