Is there an easier way to remove deuce hubs?

[russojap]

I'm working on a gravel driveway, so anything with wheels wouldn't work. Maybe I could put some thick plywood down? Not sure I have the strength to remove and reinstall all those hubs, I nearly broke my back doing only one a few years ago. Thanks

 

[Barrman]

You could pull the brake drums off to make them lighter. Otherwise, some kind of stool to sit on so your legs can kind of catch the hub as it comes off...

 

[cattlerepairman]

I am working on gravel, too. A few ideas come to mind. You can make a "protector" for the spindle threads out of a short piece of PVC pipe. Cut that piece open lengthwise and remove a strip, leaving you with a 3/4 circle that you can snap over the spindle. Then you can pull the brake drum all the way forward to the end of the spindle without having to lift it.
Maybe you can sling the brake drum/hub assembly with a ratchet cargo strap, a rope or sling attached to the cargo bed and swing it out and lower it that way. Use a dolly to move the assembly around (I used to carry them until I finally asked myself "why???")




Another idea: You can leave the wheels attached, pull the driveshafts, then jack the axle just enough to take the weight off the wheels, slide a sheet of plywood between wheels and gravel and work the wheels off with the hub and drum attached. The weight of the wheel gives counterbalance and it is easier on the back...as long as you keep them upright and do not let them fall over. I have done it that way, albeit only on one axle.

Lastly: Attract young local talent with promises of pizza and beer and have them lift heavy stuff under your direction!

 

[russojap]

Ok thanks guys, great recommendations.I really like the PVC pipe idea with something tied to lower the assembly maybe and the stool would definitely make it easier also. Using both of those ideas should allow me to do it. I think I'll still put plywood or something down to make for a better working surface too.

 

[frank8003]

You need like helper "A" which can hold stuff for you and me.
This was made out of the winter friendly cat box.
\She probably still dislikes me but I needed the support.


I had jobs to do
I built her something better