I'm trying to remove my front differential and the centerlink is in the way. I've removed the nuts from it and I can't get it to break free. I've beat on it, pried on it, etc.

Anyone have any tips? I'd like to get my front ends swapped. LOL.

 

Use a pitman arm puller. Any auto parts store should have one, most likely for rent if you don't want to buy. They aren't expensive to buy either.

 

I tried that. I can't get the hook part around the centerlink. When I tried to use it on the ball joints, the ball joints are too long and it won't fit! FML! Ahhhhh

 

I've used it on center links before...strange!

 

I just removed my front diff for a rebuild while doing my 4L80 swap and did not have to remove any of the front steering components. All I did was make sure I turned the wheels all the way to the right. It takes a bit if moving around but it will come out and go in with only removing the (4) bolts that hold it in.

 

I have read that you can just turn the linkage all the way to the right. Even trying that, my front diff won't come out. It gets caught on the centerlink and oil pan. I wonder if it has something to do with my lowering spindles? Maybe the steering won't go as far?

When I have more time, I'll try to get those tie rods free and see if I can move the linkage farther.

 

Probably more work than you want to do but I unbolt the idler bracket off the frame and pull the pitman arm off the gearbox then undo the tre's and pull it out the side. I could never get one of those pullers on the centerlink either. I always just pull it with the arms and then press them out.

 

That's probably what I'm going to have to do. I'm hoping That if I remove the tie rods I'll be able to turn the steering a bit more and wiggle it out. If not, I'm going to have to do what you suggested.