Bad U joints on my 2003

[JTCrow]

Can anyone give me (with pictures) how to replace my U joints on my truck? I've noticed a "clicking" sound when I trun my truck in tight areas especially when parking. It might be something elese, but I have 88,000 miles on the odomotor and they are probably due to be replaced anyway. I'm not a mechanic by any standards, but I would like to try and do it myself. A step by step process including what tools to use, grease, etc. would be much appreciated. Dealer wanted something like $300-$400-to fix.



Thanks!

 

[Cattletrkr]

No pics or words of wisdom for ya but I will say if you've never done this sort of thing before you will want experienced help nearby. Tearing apart stuff that doesn't want to come apart is a lot easier when you know you're doing it right.

That's why I always have assistance.

$3-400 is reasonable if you talking front axle joints.

 

[MickeyMiller]

I had to replace the rear U-Joint at 90K. I removed the rear drive shaft but couldn't get the U-Joint out of the yoke... . took it to a machine shop to remove/replace the U-joints (did both, since I had it out)... $50. , plus the cost of the U-Joints, which I already had. BTW, two of the rear U-Joint needle bearings in caps were toast... the other two were fine, as was the front U-Joint.

 

[rbattelle]

These might help you out:



Removing the front hubs.



Ujoint replacement pics.



Some new joint photos.



I'm not aware of a complete "how to" replace universal joints with photos around here. We probably should get someone to write one up.



I learned to do it many years ago by careful study of a manual and then assistance from someone who had done it before. Cattletrkr is right - having someone who knows what he's doing show you what to do is the best way the first time.



If you were near me I'd come help in a heartbeat.



Ryan

 

[TBartlett1]

It sounds like the outer u-joints are bad (wheel joints) these can be quite difficult. Removing the wheel bearing hub should not be much of a problem in Texas due to little rust but the u-joints are quite large and a large vice is required along with a u-joint press (recommended) it can take considerable force to remove the old joints and if you do not know what you are doing you can break something or get hurt doing it. Reassembling is usually easier after you clean the parts up (bores). Using sandpaper to clean the rust and dirt from the bores and using grease makes reassembly much easier, but if not assembled properly could cost you dearly down the road.

I agree with previous posts, have someone with experience and the proper tools available because you most likely will need them.



tim

 

[rbattelle]

It sounds like the outer u-joints are bad (wheel joints) these can be quite difficult.

Actually, I found these to be easy relative to the rear driveshaft joints!



A 2. 5 lb hammer makes quick work of the front joints.



Personally, I think the hardest part of universal joint replacement (on any application) is being careful not to knock the bearing needles out of position during reassembly. Always makes me nervous.



Ryan

 

[BTesluck]

I also agree with these guys. I replace all my own joints as well, but have been doing it for yrs. It is a job one needs help with the first few joints. If you try it yourself the first time, it could end up costing you way more than $400 bucks. It is a job that is hard to explain in print.



Bob T

 

[jray]

Personally, I think the hardest part of universal joint replacement (on any application) is being careful not to knock the bearing needles out of position during reassembly. Always makes me nervous.

+1 I've ruined too many u-joints over the years.