I need to replace my left rear axle (have it rebuilt, actually), which is usually easy, assuming you have an impact wrench to get the axle nut off. My normal 1/2" impact couldn't do it. So I bought a 3/4" impact and 3/4" impact sockets. Not cheap. Still no dice. I applied heat and then impact. Nothing. So I bought a 3/4" breaker bar and extended it three feet with a pipe. Dead.
I had heard from a reliable source that this is not reverse threaded. I had previously tried both directions with the impact wrench if only to break loose whatever crud was holding it. I tried the reverse direction with the breaker bar and it moved. It felt like it was getting tighter because once you break it loose, it usually immediately loosens. I then figured that maybe that movement rocked whatever was holding it loose. I was overpowering the brakes, but with some quick yanks rather than a slow pull, it finally moved in the correct direction and came off.
I just wanted to post it in case anyone else runs into the same issue. Looking back, I should have just gone with the 3/4" breaker bar in the first place and saved a lot of money. BTW, neither Home Depot or Sears had a 3/4" breaker bar, but Harbor Freight did. HB FTW!
