77 4X4 CV Joint question

[77chevystepside]

My truck has hubs (part time) 4X4. While under the truck doing some detail work, I noticed the cv(?) joints have cracks in the seals. I grabbed the cv/axles and they move up and down easily. I have not used the four wheel drive in years but when I did I got a vibration at 35mph. I just had the front wheel bearings packed by a shop and they didn't mention anything about the joints. The joints themselves are tight but with cracks in the seals, I suspect they will go bad if I use the 4X4 much. Are the axles supposed to "float" like mine do? Is it a big job to replace the joints and rehab whatever is needed? I don't have a press.

[Captkaos]

You are talking about the U-joints in the front axle right?  (there is no CV joints except the front driveshaft)

[77chevystepside]

Well, let's say they are the "u joints" at the end of the axle coming from the front differential and they are in between the upper and lower ball joints. I was not referring to the u-joints in the drive shaft from the transfer case to differential. I am not sure these are called cv joints as I called them because that is what these joints in front wheel drive cars are commonly called now. Reading Chilton's they really don't explain well how they come apart like they explain the other drive shaft u joints.
I would take a stab and say that removing the wheel bearings, disc brake housing and the plate behind would allow me to simply pull the joints with the axle right out. Then press new u joints in the axle, replace seals and put it all together. Not happening this fall because it is going in storage in 3 weeks. Still would like info though.

[Captkaos]

You have to remove the hub and the locking nut, pull the whole assem appart and pull the whole axle out to replace them.

[77chevystepside]

Thanks-that's what I thought. Is there a retaining clip in the differential housing that has to be removed to pull the axle?

[Captkaos]

There is a special tool required to remove everthing off the outer axle.

[77chevystepside]

Thanks