need tips no how to unbolt the drive shaft from the rear axle

[merrill]

hello
in the process of trying to pull the rear axle

i am down to unbolting the 4 bolts from the drive shaft to the pinion input shaft, compressing the compensating spring, unbolting the hanger carrier, centering bolt and both shocks.
almost there

unfortunately i am stuck trying to unbolt the 4 bolts connecting the drive shaft to the pinion input shaft.  I have bent back the lock tabs but cannot keep the shaft from turning while un bolting the 17mm nut(s)

should i use the parking / e brake to hold the shaft in place while i try to unbolt the nuts using a box wrench?

also it seems that i can only access the nuts on the drivers side of the car between the 6pm and 10 pm position.

thanks in advance

[ja17]

Set the emergency brake to keep the driveshaft from turning. Those skinny 17mm can be difficult. Try bumping them with an air tool first (air hammer with blunt drift).

[merrill]

Thanks Joe! 
I will try you suggestion this weekend

[merrill]

got the bolts off!

it took more bumping from the air hammer than i thought it would take.  they were really on there


thanks Joe!