A malfunctioning U-joint can create issues when you are trying to steer your car. It can also affect your suspension system. Given that both steering and suspension are vital systems of your car, you need to replace a malfunctioning U-joint as soon as possible. This way, you will prevent far greater damage to your car.
Here is what you should know:
How To Replace A U-Joint: Step By Step
Step #1: Park Your Car on Even Terrain
Park your car on even and level terrain and set the parking brake. Lift it with a jack and use jack stands for safety.
Step #2: Mark the Driveshaft
Before you start removing it, mark the driveshaft and differential yoke to maintain proper balance during reinstallation.
Step #3: Remove the Driveshaft
Remove the driveshaft by unscrewing the straps or U-bolts at the differential. Then, carefully slide the driveshaft free from the transmission or transfer case. Keep a pan or a bowl nearby in case of any fluid leaks.
Step #4: Remove the Retaining Clips
Use snap-ring pliers or a flat screwdriver to remove the retaining clips that keep U-joint caps in place. Make sure to remove every clip from every cap.
Step #5: Push the Bearing Caps Out of the Yoke
Use a ball joint removal tool, or any other similar press tool, to push the bearing caps out of the yoke. After pushing one cap out, push the other cap by pressing the joint in the opposite direction.
Step #6: Put in the New U-joint
Set the new U-joint in place and carefully press in the new caps. Make sure needle bearings remain upright inside the caps. Reinstall the retaining clips.
Step #7: Secure the System
Following the marks you made in Step 2, slide the driveshaft back into its position and bolt it securely to the differential yoke. Check the manufacturer’s specifications when torqueing fasteners.
Step #8: Go for a Test Drive
Spin the driveshaft manually to ensure smooth rotation and no binding. Go for a test drive to see if everything is working properly.
How To Remove A U-Joint Using A Ball Joint Removal Tool
For many drivers, learning how to replace a U-joint isn’t that complicated, except for one part: using a ball joint removal tool to push it out. Let us assure you, it’s not that hard to figure out. Simply follow these instructions:
- First, position the C-frame of the ball joint press around the driveshaft yoke. The receiving tube should be on the side where the cap will be pressed out.
- Place the forcing screw against the opposite bearing cap. As you tighten this screw, you will push the cap into the receiving tube.
- Turn the screw slowly with a wrench or impact gun. This will press the cap out of the yoke into the receiving tube. Now you pushed out the first cap.
- It’s time to push out the opposite cap. Reposition the ball joint press on the opposite side and repeat the process to push out the second cap.
- Once you are done with the first cap pair, it’s time to move on to the second pair. Flip the driveshaft to work on the second set of caps. Then, simply repeat the previous steps.
- After you finish pressing out the second pair, the entire U-joint cross can now be removed.
Signs You Need to Replace Your U-Joint
First, let’s learn the signs that your U-joint is long overdue for replacement. The most obvious sign is the clunking noise, especially intense when you are shifting gears. You might also feel vibrations when driving at higher speeds or experiencing difficulty when steering.
You can also take a look at the U-joint for any signs of wear and tear. Look for rust, especially around the caps. There might also be an evident lack of grease. Both of these are clear signs that you need to replace your U-joint as soon as possible.
Get An Affordable Ball Joint Removal Kit From Orionmotors
You probably wonder, “How much does it cost to replace a U-joint?” U-joints typically cost around $20, but you will also need to pay for labor, which usually costs between $150 and $200. In case you decide to go DIY, you will need to buy a ball joint removal kit (unless you don’t already have one).
These ball joint removal kits are rather affordable, oftentimes cheaper than paying for a mechanic. Plus, buying a ball joint removal kit is a one-time investment, which means it can save you even more money in the long run. Here is our top pick, a durable, easy-to-use, and affordable ball joint press tool:
21pcs Ball Joint Removal Tool Kit for Most 2WD and 4WD Vehicles
This ball joint removal tool kit makes it easy to remove and install press-fit parts like ball joints and U-joints. It is suitable for 2WD and 4WD vehicles. Additionally, it is built from heavy-duty forged carbon steel with rust-resistant adapters:
What Makes Ball Joint Removal Tools The Best Choice for Replacing U-Joints?
Some people use other tools, such as hammers, for U-joint removal. While using a hammer might work, a ball joint removal tool offers a steady, controlled, and precise pressure. This allows you to press out the bearing caps without damaging the driveshaft yoke, which can happen sometimes when using a hammer instead.
Conclusion
We hope that this article has helped you learn how to replace a U-joint. Use it as your guide the next time your U-joint (or ball joint) needs to be replaced.
Make sure to follow every step in this article, as skipping even one step could compromise your security and cause further issues. If you don’t own a ball joint removal tool kit yet, visit OrionMotorTech now and get it at an unbelievably affordable price!
