What to Do When the Inner CV Joint Can't Be Pryed Out?
2 Answers
Solution for when the inner CV joint can't be pryed out: Hit it with a hammer first, then pry it out. The CV joint is a component found in almost every vehicle, located on the driveshaft as part of the drivetrain. The CV joint allows the driveshaft to operate at varying angles. Typically, CV joints have rubber protective boots and contain lubricating grease inside. If the rubber boot is damaged, the lubricating grease inside the CV joint will leak out, leading to abnormal wear. When the CV joint wears out, the clearance increases, causing noise from the CV joint.
I've encountered situations where the inner CV joint wouldn't pry out, usually due to rust seizure or deformation during installation. In such cases, I first spray lubricant like WD-40 at the connection point and wait a few minutes for it to penetrate and loosen. Then I carefully tap the edges of the CV joint with a pry bar, being careful not to use too much force to avoid damaging the driveshaft. If it still won't budge, I use a hammer for gentle tapping or heating tools like a hair dryer to soften the metal, but remember not to use open flames as they can be dangerous. When all else fails, I'll ask a mechanic for help - they have specialized pullers that can handle it. For regular maintenance, I periodically check the axle boot for wear and apply grease to prevent rust. This trouble is no small matter, but with patience, it can always be resolved.