Removing U-joints
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More Turbo
Joined: Oct 2001
Posts: 713
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From: Augusta.GA
Removing U-joints
I haven't touched a u-joint in 20 years and it shows. I tried removing one off the end of my split shaft drive train from a '79 F-250 camper special. I used a cold chisel to cut the grease cup and a socket to pound the joint to one side. It wasn't easy, but finally came apart.
Just wanted to know what the proper method for this is in case someone asks, cause I'm sure I went about it all wrong.
BTW, the middle joint is missing a grease fitting but opposing turns on the two shafts doesn't reveal play, if that's the test.
thanks
Just wanted to know what the proper method for this is in case someone asks, cause I'm sure I went about it all wrong.
BTW, the middle joint is missing a grease fitting but opposing turns on the two shafts doesn't reveal play, if that's the test.
thanks
Post Fiend
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 11,945
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From: Spokane, WA
The recommended method is sockets and a big hammer. Even the Haynes manual suggests removing the u-joints just the way you did it. You can use a shop press if you have one (most people don't) or a shop vise though most vices still won't budge the caps.
Senior User
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 225
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I found a small pitman arm puller at Checker, (not the fork kind, but the kind that kinda looks like a pully puller, sort of...) Anyway, it works really well on u-joints. I just stick a socket in to give it greater travel distance, get out the impact wrench, and its off in seconds! It's a cheap alternative to the official tool.
Posting Guru
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 1,235
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i just set the tube against samoeting hard- like a vise, a rock or a curb in the parking lot at the mall- and whack the cross legs with a BFH.. one side pops out then flip it over and repeat... don't ask how i learned that the curb works well....
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More Turbo
Joined: Oct 2001
Posts: 713
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From: Augusta.GA
Thanks for the affirmation ivanribic. Also, liked the alternative methods suggested too. may be trying it out again soon too.
Its easy to dig in my past and picture (just about feel) the pain of the curbside repair fordraceboy! You must have lots of character!
Its easy to dig in my past and picture (just about feel) the pain of the curbside repair fordraceboy! You must have lots of character!
Posting Guru
Joined: Oct 2005
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Post Fiend
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 13,873
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From: Atlanta GA
I use a ball joint remover (clamp) and adapters, sometimes impact sockets, with an impact wrench. On UJs that are really stuck and the shaft wimpy (Dana 28) I put an impact socket between the ears so they do not bend, I hate when that happens 
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More Turbo
Joined: Oct 2001
Posts: 713
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From: Augusta.GA
Lol again. Guys, I posted another thread for installing the joints, but after rereading posts, especially yours rebocardo, i more convinced that my problem is the ears on my shaft's knuckle are pinched. Appreciate if you'd look at that cause I posted it separately.