Don't be silly - a 3/4" breaker bar and proper socket coupled with ~3 feet
of pipe will give you both some control over dis-assembly and a way to
re-torque to spec, assuming you can do basic arithmetic!  ;)

On Tue, Jul 19, 2011 at 7:01 AM, Don Hanson <dhanson928@gmail.com> wrote:

>  I need to change in some new rear wheel bearings on my 84 Van, manual 5sp
> tranny.  I know the axle nut is really a pain to get off, having recently
> fought with a bug rear axle nut...  I have an idea to attempt to use the
> weight of the van to help me get this one loose.  I do not have an impact
> wrench nor a handy mechanic shop.  I do have a very stout long 1/2" drive
> breaker bar and the proper socket.  My brilliant idea is to lift the van's
> corner, put the socket onto the axle nut with a long extension on a stump
> or
> something and then letthe van lower away to break the nut loose...  I've
> had
> some PB Blaster on the nut for a few days now.  Second question:  The
> threads are normal, right?  Lefty-loosey?  Standard threading?
>
>  Think this will work?  I plan on standing back as I lower in case the
> tools should break...
>
>  Don Hanson
>

--
Jake

1984 Vanagon GL 1.9 WBX - 'The Grey Van'
1986 Westy Weekender/2.5 SOHC Subie - 'Dixie'

Crescent Beach, BC

www.thebassspa.com
www.crescentbeachguitar.com
http://subyjake.googlepages.com/mydixiedarlin%27