I’m having trouble removing my EZGO front axle

I’ve been struggling with the front axle, trying every trick in the book to remove it, but it’s like it’s glued on there. It’s driving me nuts and hindering my cart’s usability. Has anyone else been through this nightmare?

Response

I feel your pain! I had a similar battle with my EZGO. What finally did the job for me was a slide hammer with a hook. It took some elbow grease, but it worked wonders!

Solutions that Worked for Users

Solution	Users Who Found Success	Approx. Cost (USD)	Approx. Time Needed (Minutes)
Slide Hammer with Hook	2	$30 – $60	45 – 90
Seal Puller	1	$20 – $40	30 – 60
Using Sockets	1	$0 – $20 (if already owned)	20 – 40

Symptoms

• The front axle seems immovable, refusing to budge.
• Struggling with the axle despite various attempts.

Possible Causes

• Rust or debris causing the axle to seize.
• Snap rings or bearings might be too tight, holding the axle in place.

Solutions that Worked

1. Slide Hammer with Hook

• What I Did: Attached a slide hammer with a hook to the axle for extraction.
• Outcome: The axle was successfully removed after several attempts.
• Personal Experience: Required patience and consistent effort, but the slide hammer was effective.
• Steps:
  1. Securely attach the slide hammer to the end of the axle.
  2. Firmly and steadily pull the slide hammer back, creating a force that dislodges the axle.
  3. Repeat the pulling motion until the axle starts to move out.
  4. Continue until the axle is fully removed.
• Expert Tip: Check the axle for any locking pins or additional fasteners that might be holding it in place before using the slide hammer.

2. Seal Puller

• What I Did: Used a high-quality seal puller to grip and extract the axle.
• Outcome: The axle came out smoothly without damaging the tube.
• Personal Experience: The seal puller provided a good grip and made the process easier.
• Steps:
  1. Insert the seal puller carefully around the axle.
  2. Apply steady and even pressure to pull the axle out.
  3. Adjust the angle and reposition the tool as needed for a better grip.
  4. Gently wiggle the tool if the axle is particularly stubborn.
• Expert Tip: Lubricate the area around the axle before using the seal puller to ease the removal process.

3. Using Sockets

• What I Did: Utilized sockets to create leverage for axle removal.
• Outcome: Managed to remove the axle with minimal effort and tools.
• Personal Experience: This method was straightforward and didn’t require special tools.
• Steps:
  1. Select a socket that fits snugly against the end of the axle.
  2. Position the socket on the axle end and gently tap it with a hammer.
  3. Apply consistent force to the socket to push the axle out.
  4. Increase the force gradually if the axle doesn’t move initially.
• Expert Tip: If the axle is severely stuck, consider applying a penetrating oil around the axle end and letting it sit for a few hours before attempting removal.

Golf Cart Models Where This Worked

• Various models of EZGO carts, including the TXT and Marathon series.