[Strommer]

Thanks for the addition to this forum. I have recently been asked to do some maintenance on a 98 Big Bear 350 which has not seen any loving care in a long time. Noticed that the center gear box or I call transfer case lower seal is leaking so have ordered parts to replace it.
Now the problem. To make re-assembly easier, followed service guide procedure. First issue is that the rear axle will not come out. Have tried to tap it out from the brake side but won't budge. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
I did get the center gear box out when I removed the shock, undid the swingarm, and gear box mounting bolts. Re-assembly would be hard without getting axle out of rear diff.
The bike overall is in good condition for the year and want to restore it back to new shape.
Thanks for your help

 

[dezz]

Hit it harder. And I am not joking. Those axles are a pain to remove from the housing.
I always placed an old socket on the end of the axle to protect the threads, them hit that. Usually took a sledge hammer to break it free.

 

[Strommer]

Hit it harder. And I am not joking. Those axles are a pain to remove from the housing.
I always placed an old socket on the end of the axle to protect the threads, them hit that. Usually took a sledge hammer to break it free.

Thanks. I have soaked it in penetrating oil and will try to get it out today. If pounding doesn't work, then I'll see if I can get access to a press

 

[Strommer]

Update. Sprayed brake side bearing inner race after removing brake assembly. Also drained diff and sprayed PB penetrating oil inside all done yesterday.
This morning supported diff on stand with left hand side of axle down. Hit brake end of axle with a socket on axle with small mallet. Axle came out along with left hand diff seal and bearing. The left hand diff bearing was seized on axle and thus would not budge. Supporting the diff casing away from the seal and bearing helped in getting the whole thing out.
Now to soak lh bearing on axle with PB, apply heat and remove that bearing.
Ordering all new bearings and seals for entire rear axle assembly. A little TLC well before would have helped in parts not seizing in the first place.
Hope this helps someone else with same issue