This is on a 1996 EX 5-speed. I tried prying out the right axle but it seemed stuck. I read in the Helms you should drain the fluid before removing the axle. Does draining the fluid relieve some kind of pressure so you can get the out? Is there a way to refill the tranny from the top? Seems like I remember reading somewhere that you cold remove something on top of the tranny to put the fluid in that way.

 

yes you do need to drain the fluid. the reason it is stuck is it is just in tight. try using a pry bar and wedging it to where it will pry the half shaft and gently hit it with a hammer, dont smash it or you may break it. if you have not drained the fluid you will deffinetly notice it now. when you have finished fixing/replacing the half shaft and have put it properly and completely in place there is a tube just like the dip stick for oil in the top of the engine that you will need to pour the fluid down, about five or so quarts will do.

 

The fluid level inside the transmission is slightly above the output shafts. It is not totally necessary to drain it prior to removing the axle but if you remove it without draining then most of the fluid will drain after you remove the axle. 1)remove the axle and catch the fluid that spills. 2)drain the tranny and then remove the axle.
The axle has a snap o-ring that clips it in place so it can be difficult to remove. Use a prybar or two large flathead screwdrivers and pry it out. Try to pry from as many different angles as possible because it only likes to come out centered. Wiggling the bearing cup side to side while prying also helps.

As for filling the transmission: There is a larger (I believe 17mm) fill bolt w/crush washer located above the 3/8" drive drain bolt. With the drain bolt in and fill bolt removed fill the transmission through a)vehicle speed sensor OR b)reverse sensor switch. The reverse switch turns out and the speed sensor is held in with a 10mm bolt. (Careful if removing and replacing the speed sensor as the mounting tab that the bolt goes through is protruding off one side and if the sensor is not completely in the transmission prior to tightening the retaining bolt the tab can snap off)

Hope this helps