The head of the axle is designed to take a shock load to loosen the seal to the hub. When struck, the axle will rebound outwards. If it has wedges,you will need to hit it with at least a 8# sledge hammer repeatedly until it jars the wedges loose. Have done 1,000's of them when I was in the truck shops. When the sound changes when you hit it, it will ring, it is loose. I have special pliers that will split the wedges and remove them. You can use a small chisel and hammer, tap the chisel into the split at a 90* angle to the stud. This will expand them so you can slide them off. I have never used a drift, could not get anyone brave enough to hold it while I swing the hammer. If you are not accurate with the hammer, the studs will suffer. be prepared to repair or replace them. Also, cut an empty gallon oil jug in half, so it will fit under the hub to catch the oil that will pour out when it breaks loose.
2021 Ram Limited, 3500, Crew Cab, 1075FTPD of Torque!, Max Tow, Long bed, 4 x 4, Dually,
2006 40' Landmark Mt. Rushmore
