Front Axle U-Joints

[-=db=-]

Anyone know how to replace the front axle u-joints on a 91 XLT 4.0 auto? It looks like it's going to be whole lots of fun to do and my Haynes manual conviently left that particular repair out.
I'm sure the info is on the site here somewhere but I'm still trying to figure out the site navigation and can't find the info.
Thanks

-=db=-

 

[jrgaylor]

How much detail do you need?
In a nutshell you will need to pull your axles out, which require that you pull your calipers,hubs,rotors,spindles and you will need a special socket for the spindle nut

 

[holshotracer]

it is really not that bad to do. as long as the bolts come out easy. there was a small bolt about 5.5mm and held the wheel speed sender that gave me the most problems because its hard to get to. the socket is a 2 and 3/8 that you can get at any auto parts store.

 

[DeRocha]

Searching is easy...Just click the search button put in U-Joint and your off to the races... Anyway check out the U-joint link in my sig for lots of info and pics of pressing out/in U-joints. You only need to remove the caliper, wheel bearings, and rotor to be able to replace U-joints. Once these are removed the axle shaft will slide out through the steering knuckle.

holshotracer was probably thinking you were replacing Ball-joints in which case you would need to remove the steering knuckle.

BTW if your Ball -joints are old (100K) then I would replace them at the same time (since you'll already have 90% of the hardware already removed while doing U-joints). To make Ball joints install easier put them in the freezer overnight and they'll slide in nicely...

 

[Tony H]

DeRocha, Tried the 'store bought' Press in the past. I never had any good luck with them. The Joints were always so tight (rust and gack) that I thought I'd break the Tool before the Joints would give.

It sounds like you have had good luck with the "right tool"

 

[DeRocha]

Well I kind of cheat by using an impact gun.. It removes the joints in no time... Before using the impact gun I used a breaker bar. It seamed like I was putting a lot of stress on the joint...

 

[Tony H]

Thanks for verifying.

I got air tools but I didn't when I tried the Bearing/'U' joint tool.

 

[holshotracer]

i was talking about the spindle that your wheel bearing ride on. i had to remove mine to replace the spindle bearing that holds your axle off the spindle.