Need some help/advice on ECGS install

So I'm trying to install the ECGS bushing and I ran into a problem that made me stop. Going along with many of the video's I watched and threats on this forum, I was trying to take off the axle nut by using 2 breaker bars to keep the hub from spinning. However, this caused one of my lugs to slightly bend, so I stopped then and there. But I've read that some people were able to pull the CV out of the dif without pulling it from the hub by just undoing the 2 bolt from the bottom of the hub. Is this an easy work around? I don't really have much mechanical experience and this is my only vehicle so I'm a bit nervous about screwing up the install. I've got all the tools I need and the removal tool from ECGS. Any help is appreciated.

 

If you bent a lug, I'd stop right there. I've installed two of the bushings. You're going to want to do it right and pull a lot of stuff out of your way. There isn't much room to swing a hammer even then.

I'd put it back together if you can and push the install back to a later date. Get that lug fixed first since this is your daily driver.

Also, get a 3lb mini sledge and a 18" flat head screwdriver. Use the screwdriver and sledge to tap the CV shaft out. It's the easiest way. You'll also need the mass of the large hammer to tap the bushing in place since there isn't room to swing a smaller hammer the extra mass really helps.

PS. It shouldn't be that hard to get the axle nut off. A standard breaker bar has always been enough for me. Just remove the nut without the truck jacked up and it should come off without the wheel spinning.

 

Truck is back together and everything seems to be fine. I was able to fix the lug.

Probably a stupid question, but lowering the truck once the wheel is off and attempting to take off the axle nut wont damage anything? the hub won't move at all?

 

With the wheel off, yes it would be a bad idea. I've never done a 3rd gen. In at least one of my installs I left the wheel on or put it back on just long enough to lower the truck and remove the nut through the center cap hole.

If you can't get that to work, leave it lifted and either have someone hold the brake or wedge the brake pedal down with something.

 

aaaaah ok, I got it now. Thanks for the help.

 

You can slip a screwdriver in the bottom of the rotor to keep it from spinning as you undo the axle nut. Or just have someone hold the brakes. Or put it in 4wd and put the opposite side tire on the ground.

 

Awesome, thank you.

 

Or have someone press the brake pedal