I'm trying to replace the clutch in my 97 SE 5-speed. I removed the passenger axle pretty easily but the driver side just won't come out.

Any known issues if try to remove the transmission with the driver axle still in?
Or maybe an idea on how to get the driver axle out (aside from pulling)? I have new ones so I don't need to save the old ones.

Thanks.

 

Pull and/or use a large pry bar.

 

Out is the easy part. Putting them back in is often the hard part.

As your pulling, give it a slight jiggle and rotational twist as you pull. If that doesn't work, the crowbar should do it no problem.

 

I had trouble getting the proper angle with a crow bar, and finally used a long 3/8" socket extension as a lever. That worked perfectly.

 

Unfortunately, I am working using jack stands and I don't have a long pry bar, I only have a smaller one.
I was able to remove the transmission with the driver axle still in it. I had to cut off the boot and remove most of the axle.

Then while my brother hit the pry bar with a hammer, I pulled on the remainder with a pair of vice grips. It was a pain but it finally came out. Luckily, the oil seal stayed intact.

Thanks for your help.