Hi all,

I will be installing disc brakes all around on my '68 Chevelle and I am trying to plan ahead.

Does the rear axle shaft need to be removed in order to remove the drum backing plate?

I have a 10 bolt standard diff.

Thanks in advance,
Theo.

yes it does, you have to remove the diff cover and allow the lube to drain. Turn the diff until the small bolt is visible and remove that bolt and the pinion shaft that it holds in, then push in some on each axle shaft and remove the horseshoe shaped pieces and remove the axle shafts and then you can unbolt the backing plates. You might want to remove the e brake cables without destroying them and to do that, slip a mini clamp around the outside of the retainer that holds it in the backing plate and tighten some and then slide it out some and remove the mini clamp. Hope this helps.

Leo,

Thank you for the information. Are there any gaskets/etc. that I should change if I remove the axle shaft? I do not want more problems...

Theo.

you can use an air chissel and cut the backing plates off if you dont want to pull the axles. but if you do, i would replace the bearings and seals, and of course the pumpkin cover gasket. i did rear disc read my write up.

http://members.aol.com/smartasreality/page05.html
http://members.aol.com/smartasreality/page11.html

Thanks guys!!!

I think I will try the air chisel route... I do not want to mess with the diff. It might be more than I can handle. If there was a computer in there, it would be a different story...

I'll be having much better brakes soon!!! This is exciting!

Theo.

Originally posted by Theo:
I do not want to mess with the diff. It might be more than I can handle.Pulling the axles is not a big deal at all. Unless catching the old fluid and putting in new with a new gasket is a hassle, it won't be a bad job.

Will you need to pull them to put on whatever bracket you will be using for the disk brakes?

Tim.

Originally posted by TronDD:
Will you need to pull them to put on whatever bracket you will be using for the disk brakes?

Tim. not true. the braclets i use do not require removing the axles to mount. they only use 3 of the 4 mounting holes. but i would take this oprotunity replace the axle seals and giving the reaar a good flush out. it really is simple just dont let the little gears and spherical washers fall out after you take the big pin out. you will feel better if you do it.

I got the rear brake kit from BP brakes and it does not require to remove the axle to install it.
I do have all the Chevelle manuals and I could tackle the axle removal. I just have not done it before and I am a little afraid about tackling it... I might change my mind.

Theo.