Author Topic: U-Joint problems  (Read 3608 times)

Offline txswb87

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U-Joint problems
« on: December 27, 2010, 02:07:57 pm »
Anyone have problems with the u-joints fitting? I have an 87 SWB 2WD 350 /700R4. When I put the new joints in I have to press them in so tight to get the clips in that they wont swival. I have tried several different u-joints and they all do the same thing.

Offline Grim 82

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Re: U-Joint problems
« Reply #1 on: December 27, 2010, 02:46:36 pm »
When you get the clips installed smack the flanges with a deadblow hammer to pull the caps back and see if they loosen up a bit.
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Offline thirsty

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Re: U-Joint problems
« Reply #2 on: December 27, 2010, 03:10:17 pm »
I've had that problem before with cheap u-joints (Napa store brand in my case). Like Grim said, you can hit them around some. I usually ended up having to swap them again for a good joint. Only time I will put a cheap one in is if I can't get a good one and the rig has got to be fixed asap. Also look at your yokes and make sure they didn't get damaged.
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Offline VileZambonie

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Re: U-Joint problems
« Reply #3 on: December 27, 2010, 07:24:29 pm »
On the driveshaft end or the yoke side?
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Offline txswb87

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Re: U-Joint problems
« Reply #4 on: December 29, 2010, 08:26:01 pm »
In answer to some of the responses, 1 I'm using good quility u joints as a matter of fact the NAPA brand was the closes fit. 2 both ends of the drive shaft have the same problem, I have measured the yokes and they have not been distorted at all. I figure it is going to be a tight fit and I will try knocking the caps out a little when I get the clips on.
Thanks for the responses and hope everyone has a safe New Year.

Offline VileZambonie

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Re: U-Joint problems
« Reply #5 on: December 30, 2010, 09:05:58 am »
Unless the ears bent you either have the wrong U-Joints or knocked a needle bearing loose and it's preventing the cap from fully seating on the trunion. Take it back apart.
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Offline Jim Rockford

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Re: U-Joint problems
« Reply #6 on: December 31, 2010, 08:56:03 am »
yea , You really have to be careful about knocking 1-2 bearing loose and it getting pinned. But if you forced it some hard that you where able to get both snap rings on, Its screwed, Normally they do get a little stiff after you install em, But like someone said, give it a few good smacks with a small hammer and it should loosen up a little, Its not gonna be totally free floating, cause it is a brand new part and its fine.
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Offline Irish_Alley

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Re: U-Joint problems
« Reply #7 on: January 01, 2011, 01:04:39 am »
I know I have had then tighten right up if you push the cap on to far to snap the ring in but like said a hit with a hammer usually does the trick
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