I'm replacing the rear tire, (for the first time) have loosed the adjusters and removed the cotter key and the big nut, but how do you get the axle out?
My shop manual doesn't show how and a search here mostly refers to wheel bearings.
Does it turn from the other side, (I've put a bar on that head and it seems frozen) or do you drift it out from the retaining nut side?
I don't want to wail on it too much or it will start to mushroom.
Definitely don't want to peen the axle, but you do have to drift it out somehow...and some penetrating oil might also be indicated.
I'd start with a dead-blow hammer with non-metal head--the heaviest one I could find. This tool will come in handy throughout a lifetime of bike work.
If that doesn't do it, I'd then move to a heavy (3-pound) hammer with a piece of hardwood over the axle. Orient the hardwood piece such that the grain is in line with the hammer stroke.
If that doesn't shift it, try a blank of steel between the hammer and the end of the axle--this should prevent mushrooming of the axle.
One way to keep the axle from moving too far at once (and to protect the threads) is to leave the large nut mostly threaded on. Just leave 3/16" or so of space for the axle to break free without flying too far. That said, be very careful to not damage the threads if using this method--your hammer strength may be too much.
All the best,
Shane
*Edited to add* I see you got the axle free before I posted. Good job, and I'll read more closely before posting next time!
