B7200 HSTE Left Rear Axle replacement

[HWwelds]

I bought a B7200 HSTE last week. It runs good but has many character defects and electrical quirks to straighten out.
Yesterday, after taking the rear wheels off to install new tires, I decided to wire brush all the dirt and dust that had accumulated because of a Left Rear Axle Seal leak and to pull the wheel hub off in preparation for the new axle seal that should arrive any day. Much to my shock and surprise, I realized the wheel hub is welded to the axle on both the front and rear of the hub.

Just when you think you have the answers, someone changes the questions. (smh)

So now I am waiting on parts so I can replace the axle and hub as well as the seal and I need some guidance. If I unbolt the left rear axle housing, will the entire Left axle come off? That sounds too easy.
If anyone can post any pictures they may have from removing a Left Rear axle or if you may have words of wisdom to share about it, I would be very grateful.

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

Yes unbolting the case will allow you to remove the axle, it's that simple.
Make sure you order the case gasket, Updated P/N 66905-11242

http://www.colemanequip.com/parts/KubotaParts/66905-11242/

 

[HWwelds]

Yes unbolting the case will allow you to remove the axle, it's that simple.
Make sure you order the case gasket, Updated P/N 66905-11242

http://www.colemanequip.com/parts/KubotaParts/66905-11242/

Awesome to hear. Thanks. I did order a new gasket. The parts diagram showed two different numbers for the gasket in the image and the parts list, but were the same part number.

Should I use any kind of Permatex sealer on the gasket or gasket only?

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

Yes, I use a thin layer of ultra blue, or Permatex on all those kids of gaskets!

 

[HWwelds]

Yes, I use a thin layer of ultra blue, or Permatex on all those kids of gaskets!

It is coming along. I had to battle rusted bolt heads on about every third bolt but that was expected. Find nuts that fit over the bolt head, weld it, and remove the bolt.

I need to pull the brake drum off the old Axle housing. My three jaw puller will not grab the lip in the center of the drum. Any tips for what to use as a puller would be appreciated.