Rear U-joint replacement

[BillsFan76]

So I finally have my 9" back together. Unfortunately, when we DC'ed the rear drive shaft to drop the pumpkin, my brother knocked both caps off the U-joint sending bearings everywhere. I picked one up today thinking all you had to do was take the snap rings and U-bolts out and it would drop out and of course It didn't /emoticons/[email protected] 2x" width="20" height="20" /> Do you need to remove the rear drive shaft to replace that U-joint or can it be done on the truck? I was outside in the rain for about 4 hours putting the rear end and brakes back on my truck so didn't have a ton of time to mess with it before dark, thought i'd ask. Thanks again.

Alex

 

[Bully Bob]

Snug fit.., all that would make them stick is "crud" .

With clips out, clean the ridge there, (I sometimes use a dremmel with a mini wire wheel on it.)

& they should slide out.  Use some penetrating oil if necessary.

Pushing/tapping from one side.., pushes the opposite side out.

Clean the holes but don't rough them up.

Easily done on the bench but, also doable under the rig.

 

[BillsFan76]

Are the caps removed to take it out or does it slide out as one piece? When the new one is put in do you put the caps on after its in place or all at the same time?

 

[Bully Bob]

R&R'ing the drive shaft spider.

Pushing/tapping on one side, pushes the other one out a bit.  As it sticks out, you can usually grab it  with pliers

& wiggle it out.  Then tapping on the spider tip (back the other way)  the other one will come out.

**** the new caps surfaces .., put the spider back in place then slide the new cap in the hole 'til

it goes over the spider stud. If you can, push the cap all the way in place. 

Then start the second cap.  carefully align it with the stud. Push it in.

If you're comfortable all the roller bearings stayed in place..., continue pushing them (caps)  in 'til seated.

Replace clips.

Of course, the remaining two caps just sip on & the u-clamps lock them in place on the pinion yoke.

 

[BillsFan76]

Thank you. Great explanation, going to try it Monday when I'm off and cross my fingers. /emoticons/[email protected] 2x" width="20" height="20" />

 

[Bully Bob]

No problem..!

Being your first time.., I'd pop the two "c" clamps off the front.., wrap tape around the two loose caps.., and

do the mounting of the rear spider on the bench.

This way, you can inspect that front CV joint, clean & grease the zerks (if yours have them)

and be secure knowing the whole drive shaft is up to spec.

It's all quite easy. You won't have a problem.

 

[BillsFan76]

Got it in no problem after your explanation, thank you. About to post a few more questions with issues I'm having. Thanks!

 

[Bully Bob]

Ahhhhh..., success..!

Glad to hear it.