Motorcycle Repair: Honda rear axle SL-70, rear brake lever, wheel bearings

Question
Hey Chris,

I have had this 1971 SL-70 for 15 years and have decided to restore it.  I need to remove the rear axle to replace the wheel bearings and sprocket.  I cant for the life of me figure out how to remove the axle, I removed the axle nut, the rear brake lever and adjusters. Now shouldn't the axle just slide out? It wont budge.  I tried turning it, tapping it with a hammer to no evail.  If I'm missing something please let me know.

Answer
Hi Ryan.
 It is possible that the axle is rusted in place to the bearings, but you may also wish to look at the repair manual for specifics on the axle and wheel assembly.  Use some high grade rust solvant/lubricant to help break it free.  It may require a bit of saturation of the affected parts.  The axle should just slide out, though.

Check with your repair manual, see what it shows and let me know how it goes.

Good luck.
FALCON