Trouble with passenger side cv axle ( 2001 4x4 Limited xcab)

Hello all, so i started to notice a grinding noise off and on while driving. Long story short I need to change my CV axle on passenger side. Ordered a new one from Amazon and it did not fit. Found that piece of the old axle after the C shaped snap ring has broken off and is stuck sitting in the differential housing. Unable to remove it because gear teeth will not line up. I thought to remove the entry to differential on that side(differential tube). It is held in by 4 star head bolts. I figured to remove the old piece from that side but I am unable to break free any of these 4 star bolts. The 2 on bottom have really started to strip from my efforts to remove. Any ideas or suggestions? Has this happened to anyone else?

 

Good morning; bump.

 

Can you get a magnetic pick up tool in there too realign it and pull it out?

 

Morning Festerw, I did try that but the magnet is not strong enough to pull and align the teeth.

 

Looking at the service manual, could you remove the axle actuator and get to it from there? Also assuming your using the correct E14 socket on those bolts about the only thing that may help is some heat.

 

No go on accessing from actuator. I am headed to HD to pick another drain pan and torch. I think that's only way to go now. I will try to take some pictures before getting started.

 

Magnet not strong enough to pull piece back through with the gears in the way.