I'm having a difficult time removing the rear axle nut in order to remove the hubs to replace the brake shoes and wheel cylinders on a 1969 VW Bug. Any suggestions on removal?

Both nuts are normal thread - turn counter-clockwise to remove. I checked the Muir book to be sure (and that's what I remember although I've only had mine off once). Before removing the nut, mark it with some paint on the nut and the spindle so you can tighten it back to the same place.

Remove the cotter pin. There are two common ways: buy a 36mm hub socket (which will be 1/2 inch drive). Front wheel drive spindle sockets are usually available at places like AutoZone and Sears.

Get a 1/2 inch drive breaker bar and attach a cheater (piece of pipe). Get someone to sit in the car with the brakes on, and you basically put all your weight (carefully) on the cheater. You'll probably have to stand on the cheater, and bounce.

Needless to say, you need a really strong breaker bar. The second method is a little simpler. There's a 36mm wrench-like tool with flat surfaces for hammering where the handle would normally be.

It's only about 6 inches long and you pound on it with a hammer. Works ...

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