Use snap ring pliers or a large flat screwdriver to remove the retention rings from the U joint bearing caps, depending on the design.

Ensure the U joint is the correct size for your drive shaft and fits snugly into place. Some designs may require removing the end caps, fitting the joint, then installing the end caps in place. Be sure not to lose bearings or get dirt into the caps, and avoid forcing caps into place as it can damage the bearings.

Vibration and clunking noises are common symptoms, but a sudden failure could cause the drive shaft to come apart and disable your vehicle, even damaging the undercarriage badly.

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How to removeujoints without a press

The T-shaped part has two opposing ‘arms’ secured to the driveshaft and two that secure to the adjoining part. Designs can vary, but the vast majority of U joints have caps with lubricated needle bearings that are secured at the differential, at a yoke that slides onto the transmission output shaft, or mid-shaft to provide the pivot point.

RearU joint replacementcost

There are many different recommendations based on the part manufacturer. Although Moly grease is a common suggestion, follow the advice from the particular part manufacturer of the U joint you’ve selected.

The first step in any vehicle repair or maintenance project is ensuring that you have all the necessary tools and equipment. The tools required for a U joint replacement are comparatively simple, but selecting the right ones can make the process significantly smoother.

FREE Loan-A-Tool® program requires returnable deposit. Please note that the tool that you receive after placing an online order may be in a used but operable condition due to the nature of the Loan-A-Tool® program.

Be sure to consult your owner’s manual, a repair guide, an AutoZoner at a store near you, or a licensed, professional mechanic for vehicle-specific repair information. Refer to the service manual for specific diagnostic, repair and tool information for your particular vehicle. Always chock your wheels prior to lifting a vehicle. Always disconnect the negative battery cable before servicing an electrical application on the vehicle to protect its electrical circuits in the event that a wire is accidentally pierced or grounded. Use caution when working with automotive batteries. Sulfuric acid is caustic and can burn clothing and skin or cause blindness. Always wear gloves and safety glasses and other personal protection equipment, and work in a well-ventilated area. Should electrolyte get on your body or clothing, neutralize it immediately with a solution of baking soda and water. Do not wear ties or loose clothing when working on your vehicle.

Looking for a new U joint for your vehicle? You’ll find the right fitment at AutoZone from trusted brands like Duralast. And if you’re not sure you’ve got the right part selected, we’ve got you covered with trustworthy advice. If the job is too big for you, seek out one of our Preferred Shops to help you do the job.

Line up the marks you made earlier to maintain proper balance and minimize driveline vibration, then fasten the drive shaft back into place.

Regular inspection and maintenance can prevent driveline vibration, noise, and the eventual failure of these critical components. A shot of grease at least once per year is a good plan, and checking for excessive wear or failures should be part of every service interval.

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Replacing U joints can seem daunting, especially if you’re new to vehicle maintenance. By breaking down the process into manageable steps, you’ll be able to tackle this task with confidence.

How to replaceujoints on a truck

In a drivetrain that’s constantly flexing and moving, damage will almost immediately occur if all of the parts are rigidly mounted. Universal joints, or U joints, are components of the drive shaft responsible for allowing necessary movement while transferring power to the wheels. Over time, U joints may wear out, leading to issues with power delivery, noisy operation, and even dangerous malfunctions that can cause a wreck. With the majority of replacements being between $15 and $70, they’re one of the more affordable driveline repairs. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to conduct a U joint replacement, keeping your vehicle in its best shape.

A press may be necessary to apply even pressure when removing the old U joint. If you don’t have a press, carefully use a hammer and an appropriately sized socket to tap the U joint out from the drive shaft.

Even with careful preparation and following the step-by-step guide, you may encounter challenges when replacing your U joints. Knowing how to troubleshoot these issues will help ensure the success of your project.

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Precision is key, so don’t rush through any step. Before putting everything back together, double-check the condition of all parts,  and torque all of the fasteners to spec. After the replacement, take your vehicle for a short test drive. Listen for any unusual noises or vibrations, which may indicate a problem with the U joint installation or alignment.

Applying the correct amount and type of grease is essential for the smooth operation and durability of your U joint. Over-greasing can lead to overheating and failure while under-greasing can cause premature wear and failure. Use a grease gun to inject the proper amount of grease into each bearing cap.

After fitting the new U joint, use new retention rings or snap rings to secure the bearing caps. Some designs may require that caps are tapped into place with a hammer or pressed in.

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If it fails, there will be progressive symptoms like a clicking or knocking noise with drive shaft rotation, clunking when you shift into gear or accelerate and brake, and if it fails completely, it can separate in catastrophic fashion and cause you to lose control while you drive.

Learn about the cost of replacing a driveshaft, from parts and labor to DIY options. Discover when to repair, replace, and the signs of a failing driveshaft.

Drive shaftU joint replacement

U-joints only need to be replaced when they’re worn or damaged, not at a set interval. It could be anywhere from 30,000 miles and up, although an average lifespan may be around 80,000 miles or so.

Depending on your vehicle’s make and model, U joints can be found at various points along the drive shaft. You may need to remove underbody covers, cross members, or parts of the exhaust system to access the U joint. If you don’t create enough access, it will almost certainly be a more difficult process than it needs to be.

Before disassembly, mark the relationship between the drive shaft and the flanges to ensure proper alignment upon reinstallation. Chalk or touch-up paint work well for this. Then, remove the drive shaft. Often, it’s a matter of unbolting it from the differential and the hanger bearing, then sliding it from the transmission yoke.

In a drivetrain that’s constantly flexing and moving, damage will almost immediately occur if all of the parts are rigidly mounted. Universal joints, or U joints, are components of the drive shaft responsible for allowing necessary movement while transferring power to the wheels.

U joint replacementcost

Over time, U joints may wear out, leading to issues with power delivery, noisy operation, and even dangerous malfunctions that can cause a wreck. With the majority of replacements being between $15 and $70, they’re one of the more affordable driveline repairs. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to conduct a U joint replacement, keeping your vehicle in its best shape.

Also, you should wear protective equipment whenever working on parts like the driveshaft and U joints. Wear safety glasses, gloves, and avoid loose-fitting clothing that could get caught in moving parts.

U joints allow the drive shaft to pivot on both the vertical and horizontal axes, providing flexible and uninterrupted power transfer from the transmission to the drive wheels. They are often found in rear-wheel-drive, all-wheel-drive, and four-wheel-drive vehicles.