Special socket for removing driveshaft flange?

[Prime Lord]

I tried last weekend to remove the driveshaft flange from my differential so that I could pull the shaft, but none of my sockets fit the bolts well enough to remove them. Its almost like they were tapered. What size or special socket is needed to get these things off?? thx.

 

[gt90stang]

12mm is needed. I break them loose with a box end wrench with an pipe extension on it. You can only get a socket on it if you support the frame on jacks and let the axle drop down all the way to the stops.

Good Luck, Don

 

[venom88]

It takes a 12 point socket to fit properly on the bolt.

 

[ratrapp]

i have a 12point nissan headbolt socket that works great as it's tapered and goes around the driveshaft with a whole lot more clearance than a regular socket and extension.i got mine off of the mac tool truck.