I need to replace my front u-joint @ pinion, but I can get the damned clips out of it.  Is there a trick without special tools?  Also, ONCE they "out", do the caps tap out of the DS?

 

 

Thanks,

Rogan

The clips should pop out without any special tools. You should be able to use a punch and a hammer to push one end far enough to hook a screwdriver between the clip and cap to pry it out, Sometimes they rust in so bad they will break and go flying so be careful.

Ive been knocking the u-joint cap into the center which will relieve the tension off the clip than i use a punch and hammer on the end of he clip

I torch the cross out and then tap the cap in and then pull the clip. Use this method with all u-joints anymore, the newer ones are held in with a plastic epoxy that needs to be melted out anyhow.

thanks, guys..  I don't have a torch, so that's out..

All new crosses come with new clips so no need to be gentle, get in there with a small tipped chisel if they are rusted in tight, wrap things pretty hard with a hammer to start to loosen the rust if need be.

Living in the rust belt I don't even mess with trying to press  a bad u joint out. 6" grinder with a cut off wheel, whack the cross out, and the caps will almost fall right out. Torch works good too.

Even a propane torch can help.

Mine had half clips to hold the U Joint in, Just used a screw driver and a hammer to separate them.   Had a real issue though with the Front Spline being seized.      http://www.cumminsforum.com/forum/ontario/430987-drive-shaft-repair-company-west-toronto.html

I torch the cross out and then tap the cap in and then pull the clip. Use this method with all u-joints anymore, the newer ones are held in with a plastic epoxy that needs to be melted out anyhow.

 

I learned that last fall. Ugh. Plastic injected u-joints on a 2005 Dodge Ram (Cummins). I would have to say it is easier.