removing a torque tube

[sedan_dad]

I need a lesson on how to remove a torque tube from my 40 ford rear.I figured out that it doesn't just unbolt at the rear.I don't want to screw anything up.How do I do it?

[Crestliner]

take the bolt that holds the wishbone out.
should remove the speedometer drive gear.
take the bolts out at the rear and slide the tube off.
shaft will still be attached.
If you want to remove drive shaft drill the pin and drive it out, I believe the pin is tappered so look closely and drill small end.

[Digger_Dave]

sedan, adding to crestliners instructions.
IF the rear end is still under the car;

Remove spring "U" bolts, (they used a cotter pin in the nuts) disconect shock links and anti sway bar links; AND the brake hose between the tourque tube and the frame. (replace the hose no matter how good it looks!)

[Bruce Lancaster]

The pin actually is straight with riveted heads. Grind or drill off one head. You'll likely need to do some hammering, and if so support the area you are pounding so you don't mess up the pinion bearings.

[sedan_dad]

Thanks ,Heres a little more info.The rear is out of the car.The rear spring has been removerd.The wishbones have been cut where they bolt to the torque tube.They haven't been spread though.I removed the speedometer gear and housing,unbolted the 6 bolts that hold the tube to the rear end and tried to remove the tube.It came off about a quater inch and felt like something was keeping the tube from coming off any more.Do I force it or is there something I'm overlooking?My plans are to use this rear with it's wishbones and a A-bone buggy spring under a T.

[Crestliner]

It is catching on the sleeve that connects the shaft to the pinion or the center bushing. Just move it around and pull nothing there to really hurt.

[Bruce Lancaster]

And spread lots of newspapers...
Damn thing probably contains more than its own weight in acumulated filthy grease...

[28rpu]

There's a clip that holds the speedo gear in place on the drive shaft.
The speedo gear is sandwiched between the clip and the front bearing.
Remove the clip and the tube should slid off.