Dana 27 knuckle/axel question

Help, I am in the middle of a dana 27 knuckle replacement. I need to know: If I remove the axel, can I reinsert it without opening the pumpkin? I have the knuckle removed and the axel is hanging out of the end of the housing. I need to do some other work to the end of the housing and knuckle before reassembly. :?

 

Yes you can, but don't force it back in. It has a spline on the other end that has to engage. If that end dropped a little it won't go in without wiggling it a little.

 

That's what I thought but wanted a second opinion. thanks

 

OK here I am with 2 hole studded knuckle installed and seal set up. I tried to insert the axel shaft and no love. I have tried wiggling it every way possible, I have the driveshaft removed and rotated the pinion, no luck, Is this possible without going into the pumpkin, if so what am I doing wrong...... :? :? :?

 

I been wigglin for over an hour, light pressure, heavy pressure, turn and push, push and turn, lift end, push down on end, no luck... my wigglin is wearin out

 

looking in with a light, i can see the splines, they are centered. i dug out my spare axel and gave it a try and neither one will go in. :?

 

and then...POP! it went in. .... ....... .... .... R)
on to the other side! thanks for the moral support guys

 

Good job!

 

that was entertaining thanks for that guys! i have been there before.