convert long axle tubes to short

[Aussie Rob]

I recently bought a pair of new axle tubes that came fitted already with the long bearing housing. I want to convert to short axle tubes with the shorter bearing housings supplied to carry out the conversion.
 I have removed the securing pin and was wondering how the hell i can press the bearing housing off the axle tube. Is there a special vw tool i can buy. I can bench 250lbs but man i cant budge the tube.

[gkeeton@zbzoom.net]

You will probably need a Hydraulic Press with a fair amount of pressure. You could gently heat the bearing housing to expand it, to help it slide off. You will need to make some sort of tool/arbor the size of the tube, but smaller than the housing to press out the tube. Also, when pressing the new housing on the tube, don't use the "bell" of the tube as the base. Make sure you support the end of the tube inside the "bell" to take the full load of pressure, or you end up turning the "bell" inside out.

[dangerous]

Yes, you will need a press, or very strong puller Rob.
VW actually made a special tool that bolted to the four threads
where the bearing cap normally attaches.

[Aussie Rob]

thanks for your help guys. Looks like its best left to the vw specialist shops.