unable to remove rotor (SOLVED)

[cooter]

Hi folks.

Replaced pads and rotors on my '03 Vibe over the weekend. Well, I replaced one rotor, because I could get the other one off. Seems to be rusted to the hub.

I sprayed WD-40 everywhere, used heat (propane torch) and banged on it with a rubber mallet, all to no avail.

Is there anything else I can do, or do I need to take it to a shop where they can use a puller?

Thanks.

[SeattleJeremy]

Some disks have threaded holes where a bolts can be inserted and tightened as a way to lift the rotor away from the hub.
Like the smaller holes in this diagram.
http://extranet.soleniuminc.com/Centric ... 044115.jpg" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[cooter]

Some disks have threaded holes where a bolts can be inserted and tightened as a way to lift the rotor away from the hub.
Like the smaller holes in this diagram.
http://extranet.soleniuminc.com/Centric ... 044115.jpg" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

That's a good idea! Unfortunately, the OEM rotors do not have them.

[kumquat]

I've generally solved this problem with liberal application of a 5-lb sledge.

Though you might be able to rent a puller of sufficient size from Autozone/Advance Auto.

[SeattleJeremy]

Boo, it was worth a shot.

It takes time for WD-40 to get in to all the crevices. After applying let it sit for an hour or more, then try again with the mallet.
When you do get it off put some "Anti-Seize Lubricant" on all the touching metal parts. It will make this easier next time.
Sorry I can't be more help.

[cooter]

I've generally solved this problem with liberal application of a 5-lb sledge.

I've read you can't get too aggressive without damaging wheel bearings, so I avoided smashing it with a big hammer.

Thoughts?

[kumquat]

I haven't busted a wheel bearing yet. Those things handle some pretty serious shocks hitting potholes and stuff. Think about the amount of force applied when the entire weight of a car slams a wheel into a decent-sized pothole. You're going to have a heck of a time generating even that with your arms and a sledge no matter how hard you go at it.

I've removed wheels from cars that would not come off with a 5-lb sledge by loosening the wheel nuts and slamming on the brakes from 10 mph. If that generates more force than a sledge, then you don't have much to worry about IMO.

+1 on the anti-seize. I forgot to mention that part. I apply a little bit to the surface where the wheel contacts the rotor (on cars with steel wheels) as well. Make sure that what you use is appropriate for high-temp applications. You could use a little bit of brake lubricant in a pinch.

[cooter]

I haven't busted a wheel bearing yet. Those things handle some pretty serious shocks hitting potholes and stuff. Think about the amount of force applied when the entire weight of a car slams a wheel into a decent-sized pothole. You're going to have a heck of a time generating even that with your arms and a sledge no matter how hard you go at it.

Is there a specific location you recommend when striking the rotor? From the side (edge of the rotor)? On the face of the rotor? Between the lugs?

Thanks.

[kumquat]

I haven't busted a wheel bearing yet. Those things handle some pretty serious shocks hitting potholes and stuff. Think about the amount of force applied when the entire weight of a car slams a wheel into a decent-sized pothole. You're going to have a heck of a time generating even that with your arms and a sledge no matter how hard you go at it.

Is there a specific location you recommend when striking the rotor? From the side (edge of the rotor)? On the face of the rotor? Between the lugs?

Thanks.

Everywhere. I'd start with a few good whacks around the edges, then a few around the edge near the lug bolts. Then maybe a few from the backside of the rotor surface. I'd go easy on the backside though, that's where you're going to get the most potentially damaging force on the bearing assembly. The rotor floats a little bit around the lugs so you should be able to knock it loose hitting the outer and inner edges.

[Chiadog]

My personal favorite system! youtube video.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtsTJCRljAs

[SeattleJeremy]

My personal favorite system! youtube video.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtsTJCRljAs

That's brilliant!

[cooter]

FYI everybody - using the bolt/nut through the holes that the calipers bolt to in order to press the rotor off the hub worked like a charm. It was off in less than 5 minutes. Much more effective than bashing it with a hammer.

[Chiadog]

Thanks for the update! Good to know this "system" works.

[kumquat]

Good deal. That is a clever method.