DIY: Replacing Universal Joints

1. Vise
2. Hammer
3. Punch
4. Grease gun
5. Shop Rags
6. Latex Gloves (Optional)

   Universal joints are a vital link in your vehicle's driveline. If these joints fail, you could be left stranded. Fortunately this can be prevented through periodic maintenance and/or replacement. A bad U-joint can most commonly be detected by a metallic clunking sound when the vehicle is placed in gear. This indicates play in the U-joint and should be investigated as soon as possible. Other symptoms of a failing U-joint are vibrations from the drive shaft, noticeable especially between 25 and 35 mph; shudder on acceleration and/or squeaking noises.

   To check a Universal Joint for play, raise the vehicle and support the rear axle with jack stands. Place the vehicle in neutral and set the parking brake. Now rotate the drive shaft back and forth by hand, checking the joint for any play if any play is detected, the U-joint will have to be replaced. Also look for signs of rust. This usually means a U-joint that has no grease and is ready to be replaced soon.

   There are two, basic, types of Universal Joint, not surprisingly called Type A and Type B. The only real difference is the clips used to retain the bearing cups; otherwise the replacement procedure is the same.

   Type A, Figure 1, has a C-Clip that sits in a groove inside the yoke to hold the bearing caps in place. These are removed by using a small tip punch or chisel to pop the C-Clips out.

   Type B, Figure 2, has a Spicer Snap Ring that sits in a groove outside the yoke to hold the beraing caps in place. These are removed by using a pair of pliers to squeeze the e-clip together and pull it out. Most times you will need to tap the bearing cap in somewhat to make removing the Spicer Snap Ring easier.

   You don't have to worry about trying to save these clips. You get a set of each type when you buy a new U-joint.

• Follow these instructions carefully. Read and be sure you understand them before you begin.
• Gather together all of your tools and supplies before you begin.
• Allow plenty of time to do the job so you don't have to hurry.
• Remember that these are general instructions. For more detailed instructions pertaining to your specific vehicle, consult an appropriate repair manual.
• Safety is important whenever you're working around machinery. Beware of hot objects, sharp instruments and hazardous materials.
• Don't substitute tools unless you're sure you won't compromise either your safety or the performance of your vehicle.
• Never work on a vehicle that is only supported by a jack. Use jack stands to support the vehicle while you work. Work on a solid, level surface. Never jack a car up on dirt or grass.

1. Remove all the snap rings (or C-Clips) that retain bearings in yoke and drive shaft.
2. Index-mark, Figure 3, the drive shaft components Figure 3.
   NOTE: If components are not marked and therefore installed incorrectly, a driveline imbalance and vibration can occur.
3. Place U-joint in a vise.
4. Select a wrench socket with an outside diameter slightly smaller than the U-joint bearings. Select another wrench socket with an inside diameter slightly larger than the U-joint bearings.
5. Place the sockets at opposite bearings in the yoke so that the smaller socket becomes a bearing pusher and the larger socket becomes a bearing receiver when the vise jaws come together, Figure 4. Close vise jaws until both the bearings are free of yoke and remove bearings from the cross or spider.
6. If bearings will not come all the way out, close vise until bearing in receiver socket protrudes from yoke as much as possible without using excessive force. Then remove from vise and place that portion of bearing that protrudes from yoke between vise jaws. Tighten vise to hold bearing and drive yoke off with a soft hammer.
7. To remove opposite bearing from yoke, replace in vise with pusher socket on exposed cross journal with receiver socket over bearing cup. Then tighten vise jaws to press bearing back through yoke into receiving socket.
8. Remove yoke from drive shaft and again place protruding portion of bearing between vise jaws. Then tighten vise to hold bearing while driving yoke off bearing with soft hammer.
9. Turn spider or cross ¼ turn and use the same procedure to press bearings out of drive shaft.

   Copyright © 2000 - 2003 Vincent T. Ciulla All Rights Reserved