Classic cars forum & vehicle restoration.

[jessejazza]

I have been surprised how few garages know how to remove a hub. Often the half shaft is removed and placed in a press - and you're proudly told how 20-30 tons were applied to free it. You're not told how the half shaft is warped or now beyond repair.

It seems to me that few people know how to 'crack' a taper. Two lump hammer striking the hub simultaneously either side will do the job but it's a bit touch and go.

If you have a Herald then you'll know the TSSC sell a hub removal tool and often they are on ebay £70 [for the 3.75 PCD i think]. What do you do for other vehicles? Below is a 2"BSP flange that had the right PCD for a scimitar. For a 4"PCD your looking for the 1.75"BSP flange. Or as you can see below i milled out slots so that i could cater for any 4 stud car.

To use; undo hub nut a few threads but leave in place (for safety just in case the hub flies off), put flange on and tighten up wheel nuts to a 25 lbs torgue or so using the blank to adjust the distance - tap end with a copper hammer and it's free with a satisfying 'pop'.

Any piping contractor/fabricator will sell (probably give) you a flange - it was £5 when i got one.