Removing pinion from 135

[Armymutt]

I'm trying to remove the pinion from my 135. I've removed the 6 bolts holding the housing and threaded two back in to extract it. The housing is loose, but the pinion won't budge. Do I need to lift up the rear end to rotate a wheel in order to free it? The service manual doesn't mention this, but I can see that it is engaged in the ring.

 

[PatrickS2222]

I haven't had to do this but I remember exactly how the area looks. I also just read the relevant area in the workshop manual - removal seems to be just as you describe. The pinion is meshed with the ring gear, but will move forward and out without any other action necessary.
I can only suggest the pinion bearing casing is a very tight fit in the main housing. Careful application of mild heat in the area might help. Be EXTREMELY careful and use a copper-faced hammer if you try to tap the pinion head to shock it loose, also be careful to avoid damaging the pusher threads in the bearing casing. Be very careful and patient - it will move. Cheers.

 

[Armymutt]

The roller bearing appears loose, as I can push the pinion back and forth and wiggle it around, but when I pull it forward, it stops at a certain point, like something is blocking it. The only thing I can see in there is the ring gear.