I have a 1996 F-150 with a bad rear U-Joint. I have removed the clips and am using the socket-hammer method of getting the caps out. I am WAILING on this thing and it is NOT moving. I have used PB Blast on it, too, to no avail. Any tips?!?

Thanks - Patrick

 

Take a look at the recent post entitled "Step By Step Universal Joint Replacement help "
I just submitted the info on removing the old u-joint by placing it in a vice and use a hammer to pound the driveshaft.

 

I assume you can't put it in a vise since it's still on the truck. try hitting the yoke opposite of the bearing caps. Even if you can put it in a vise, use the yoke to extract them. Get a 2-3 pound hammer put one end in the vise and smack the other yoke hard. It will come loose--- if that all made since..

 

Is there an Autozone in your area? If so, you can get a u-joint press on their free loan-a-tool program. This would be much easier than the hammer method.

 

Be careful of the loan a tool program. I borrowed a power steering pump pulley puller and the darn thing was stripped. I rethreaded it myself so that I could use it. They tried to make me buy it when I took it back because some of the end threads were damaged. So, open the thing in front of the counter person and make sure it is all together.

I just replaced all of my U-Joints. I had to beat the living day lights out of the u-joints to get them loose. You will damage the socket, if you have an old king pin or solid bar, that is better. You will probably have to take the driveshaft out so that you can support it better. If the driveshaft is bouncing on you, you will never get them out.

 

I think you guys missunderstood what I said. I meant to do it the way that Duderoy was clarifying. That is far more easier than running up town to get some special tool. A couple swings on each side and you can have the old one out in less than 30 seconds. The first time I did it I was a little afraid of bending or breaking something, but the driveshaft is very strong.

 

I have had the greaseable u-joints in my 96 f150 for several years now wih no problems.
When I took them out I used a vise and 2 sockets.
Good luck.
Gene

1996 F150 4x4 ext cab 192000 miles