Forward-Most Univ. Joint In Fr. Ds: How?`

[Rogan]

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

[MnTom]

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.

[mopartechnician]

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

[Wild and Free]

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.

[Rogan]

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

[Wild and Free]

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.

[diesel4life]

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.

[MnTom]

Even a propane torch can help.

[Rick C in Oakville]

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

[Mopar1973Man]

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.