Thanks so far! I got a set of extractors at Lowes so I am good. I also got a new Map Gas torch.

With those 2 items I was able to remove that bolt immediately.

Unfortunately, the hub won't come off the knuckle now. Heat and beating on it with a rubber mallet do nothing. Any ideas?

This has been a very expensive and time consuming experience! :(

 

Soak it down with pb blaster on both sides Then go rent for free a slam hammer from autozone. Use your lug nuts. An it will pop off.

 

Use the ATF and Acetone mix.
Mix a quart or two of each in a bucket, just enough to cover the associated area, leave for at least an hour.

 

I'm with ShreveMini with the BP Blaster as opposed to the acetone mostly due to the flammability of the acetone and as the BP-Blaster works just as well.

You may be able to thread the 4 bolts back in the hub most of the way but leave a small gap, maybe 1/8- 3/16 gap between the bolt head and the carrier. Use a short piece of shaft to tap on the bolt heads working your way around.
The spindle nuts are off correct?
Can you see any play [in and out pulling back and forth on the axle] between the splines on the axle and the splines on the hub? If not it could possibly be seized there.

robj

 

Sorry to be slow but got it off by inserting my old lug nuts and hitting them. I appreciate all of the support here. It has been second to none.

Car is back together and runs great.

 

Good for you!
It seems this comes under the heading of a "learning experience" for you.
The good thing is you usually learn more when things go wrong rather than when they go right!

Happy Motoring.
rob

 

Thanks all, the ride difference is unbelievable. No more strange noises going over bumps. The passenger side strut collapsed with any hand pressure which I expected. The driver's side actually collapsed and oozed black goo all over the place. Unreal!