I'm in the middle of changing my rear diff seals but I can't get the axle separated from the flange. I undid all 6 bolts but it's just not coming out. Is there a trick to this? I also disconnected the upper suspension link so there's nothing pushing the axle toward the flange. I already tried hammering a flathead screwdriver into the lip that runs between the inner CV joint and flange but it's really awkward with the exhaust in the way (I can't fully drop it because it's welded after the cats.) Would it be safe to just hammer the side of the joint until it separates?

 

That sounds really weird, are you SURE everything is disconnected and unbolted?? I did mine at 268000 miles and I had to wiggle a little, elbow grease, but it came right off....If you're gonna hammer, use a rubber hammer, so as not to ding stuff up, and watch where you stick that screwdriver, if you mar up the wrong side, you'll have a little leak....