Old Chrysler rear drums are built the same way. I've seen many struggles. You got through this one, but I have some tips for viewers who are facing more stubborn circumstances. 1) The tool you bought is the right one. There are others that are very similar, and they're good too, but it has to be heavy. 2) Grease the threads on the puller tool. This reduces parasitic friction and pulls more efficiently. 3) The anvil head has two pads. Use them both at the same time with two similar hammers (big ones). 4) Put a lot of heat on the hubs. Tension them with the puller, then torch them good and they'll pop. 5) Be careful with the wheel studs. Replacements might not be available (crazy but true).
You did the right procedure by NOT trying to pull drum off by pulling on the edge of the drum. I put enough pressure on a small engine flywheel doing that to bend the fly wheel trying to get it off. I have to add that the flywheel probably hadn't been off since it was new in 1946.
Good job, on the welding also..✅ BTW, we always have used bicycle tubes to cut to length and slid them over the chain 12:44 to keep them from clanking the tailgates of old pickups…!!! 👍👏🥳
It’s been a lot of years, but I’m pretty sure that the method taught to me in 1970s shop class (for removing, and resetting the big nut) was the chisel technique.
There should be flat washers behind the shock absorber split pins. It's a PITA to compress the shock bushings but the split pins will cut the bushings. I'm local to you and can lend the tool to make this easier if you wish.
I know your not a Willys guy. I want to say that that style tailgate is highly sought after by enthusiasts. The WO stamped gate is a favorite to be stolen. You may want to make it as difficult and noisy as you can to get it back off.
Tailgate repair and "distressed" paint job were very impressive work! BTW, what model welding helmet did you get? And what settings did you use on your welder on that thin tailgate metal? Cheers.
Thanks Richard. Helmet is a Hobart No. 9-13. My welder is an older model Hobart handler 125. Wire feed about 30. Voltage switching between setting 2 and 3. It required a light touch for sure.
