U-joint replacement?

[ttora4runner]

How do you know when a u-joint is going bad and how difficult would it be to replace? Never done it before. :headscratch:

[Robinhood4x4]

Try this:
http://www.4crawler.com/4x4/CheapTricks/Driveline-101.shtml#FixingProblems

This is how you do it:
http://www.4x4wire.com/toyota/tech/cvmod/

http://www.4x4wire.com/tech/axle/ujoint/

It's not too hard to fix. If you've done things like replacing IFS CV shafts, repacked bearing, etc, you can probably do it.

[all_terrain17]

I tried changing a u-joint last month.

The only thing I managed to do was destroy a couple of my impact grade sockets and an extension. Oh, and get pissed off.

[Tankota]

The last joint I changed on my truck was so worn out that the caps just fell out when I pulled the snap rings.

At work, on commercial trucks, we replace a u-joint when there is enough end to end play in the joint cross, or if there is visible wear.

[surf4runner]

if you have any slop in it, replace em. check w/the wheels off the ground and in N.

make sure you get the c-clips back in good.
i apparently didnt get a couple back in and the F failed after 5k mi.

its a PITA to pull the driveshaft on the side of the road :tease:

[YotaJunky]

If the U-joint is seized with rust, don't waste your time trying to pound it out. Take a grinder to it and save yourself a lot of hassle. Make sure that you install the c clips with the new u joint.

[Tankota]

if you have any slop in it, replace em. check w/the wheels off the ground and in N.


Why would you need the wheels off the ground. As long as there is no tension on the driveline you should be alright.
It would really suck if I had to raise the wheels on a three axle tractor just to check the u-joints. I dont even lift when I replace joints.

[ttora4runner]

Unfortunately, due to my work schedule I'm forced to take it to the stealership to have them look at it. :chair: :chair: :screwy: :confused:

[ttora4runner]

HaHa, I stumped the toyota dealership with my problem :D. After having it for 4 1/2 - 5 hours today. They have no idea what is wrong and are guessing that it might be a bushing somewhere.

Oh, well I didn't pay anything for the service and got to ride in a 08 Cadillac XLR :D.

[4runnerchevy]

HaHa


It sounds like a bigger problem.

[20005spd]

even though you said its not a u joint anymore. i use the press in this tool http://www.sjdiscounttools.com/otc7249.html its makes everything soooo easy

[ttora4runner]

Well, figure out what the problem was. A loose sway bar link :headscratch:?

I've broken links or had them off completey and it never made the noise that it was making. Go figure. :shake:

Thanks for the replies guys.

[Tankota]

That sounds strange.

Well at least you know where to reference when you do need to change a u-joint. :P

[ttora4runner]

The sound/noise has returned.

Took up to the Avondale Toyota stealership while I was in the Phoenix area and it was determined that it is the u-joint (I feel stupid know :confused: :screwy:). On to replacement.