NOW what do I do? (car won't roll)

[davew833]

Bought a parts SVX today with what the seller said was a "blown differential" and went to tow it home tonight-- it won't even budge! Brake is off, car is in neutral, etc., but no motion! Seller didn't mention that small item, and was conveniently absent when I went to get it. (I'm not sure he even knew.) What should I do first to get this thing rolling? It's on the street- not bogged in mud or anything. Is the e-brake inside the rear hub? Can the driveshaft be dropped w/o dropping the exhaust? Help!

[Hocrest]

If the front diff is bound up, remove one of the front axles and you should be able to get it onto a trailer.

[davew833]

That's good to know, Dave. Got a hold of the seller and he said it was the front wheels. I was going to pull both front axles- I'll try pulling just one first then.

[Hocrest]

Try this.
Remove the spring pin from the inner joint of the axle.
Depending on the axle manuf and how worn it is, you can sometimes remove it from the stub without taking anything else apart.
If so, just leave it flop around while you push/pull the car.

If you can't slip it off, you'll either need to pull the 2 bolts holding the strut to the knuckle, or the ball joint.

[davew833]

I'm hoping the axles came to rest so that the spring pins are turned vertical. Otherwise getting them out will be great fun!

[kwren]

Originally Posted by davew833

I'm hoping the axles came to rest so that the spring pins are turned vertical. Otherwise getting them out will be great fun!

Not sure but if you jack it up, a wheel should turn so you can get to the pin.

Good luck...
Keith

[davew833]

Thanks, all, for the offers to help & good suggestions. I removed the right front axle and that freed everything up. Unfortunately, the right strut mount tore apart while I was attempting to loosen the axle nut, but oh well. I was able to roll it onto a flatbed tow truck and into my driveway at the other end.