Attention: TDR Forum Junkies 
I need help understanding the probable source of play(and consequence) in my driver's side front axle u-joint. The u-joint is a greasable type with around 10k mi on it.
The play in the u-joint is lateral. The spider (or cross) moves about 1/8" between the two bearing caps. The roller bearings are tight and without any play. The play is only between two of the four caps.
It seems that the caps should be seated a bit deeper to remove the play. But the caps appear to be properly seated since the internal clips are in place and I believe caps are typically only seated deep enough for the clips to be installed.
I'm inclined just to watch it for now since there doesn't appear to be any danger of the u-joint failing. I also don't see that the play would be harming anything in the differeintial although movement that isn't by design is something that usually isn't good. Thoughts?
Update 10/14/2018
I pulled the tire and got a better look. One of the caps appeared to be sticking out just a tad more than the three others. I tapped it in with a whack from a 3# hammer and socket while backing up the other end with a 4# sledge. The whacked cap moved in about 1/16" and the play is eliminated. The clip on that particular cap is in place but definitely now has play that the others don't. Problem solved for now.
The play in the u-joint is lateral. The spider (or cross) moves about 1/8" between the two bearing caps. The roller bearings are tight and without any play. The play is only between two of the four caps.
It seems that the caps should be seated a bit deeper to remove the play. But the caps appear to be properly seated since the internal clips are in place and I believe caps are typically only seated deep enough for the clips to be installed.
I'm inclined just to watch it for now since there doesn't appear to be any danger of the u-joint failing. I also don't see that the play would be harming anything in the differeintial although movement that isn't by design is something that usually isn't good. Thoughts?
Update 10/14/2018
I pulled the tire and got a better look. One of the caps appeared to be sticking out just a tad more than the three others. I tapped it in with a whack from a 3# hammer and socket while backing up the other end with a 4# sledge. The whacked cap moved in about 1/16" and the play is eliminated. The clip on that particular cap is in place but definitely now has play that the others don't. Problem solved for now.
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