How do you remove an axle shaft?

I'm working on doing a disc brake conversion using some 8.8 discs from an explorer. However in order to remove the backing plates I have to pull the 8.8 shafts. How do I do this? I know you have to remove the C-clips from inside the differential but I can't see where they are located or how to get to them. Any links or pics are appreciated.

desertfox1023 said:

I'm working on doing a disc brake conversion using some 8.8 discs from an explorer. However in order to remove the backing plates I have to pull the 8.8 shafts. How do I do this? I know you have to remove the C-clips from inside the differential but I can't see where they are located or how to get to them. Any links or pics are appreciated.

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remove the cross shaft from the carrier. there should be a bolt holding it in, running parallel to the axle shaft holding the cross shaft in.
push the axle shaft in. you should see the c-clips hanging off the shafts if they don't fall off when you push the axle shaft in. remove c-clips, and remove axle shaft.

this is how the Dana 35 goes, should be similar for the 8.8

heres a write up w/ pics... the guy has an ARB, so things might look differant. but theory is similar. should be easier w/ an open diff. usually wouldnt need pliers to remove the c-clips.
http://www.jeepsunlimited.com/forums/showthread.php?t=688250