Posted By: EV2CUDA
changing front axle ujoint - 12/12/13 05:14 PM
I found a well worn ujoint on the front axle steering knuckle.
Have not changed one of these before so wondering what the procedure is or any hints to get it right. I dont have a manual, but probably should!
Posted By: CTD5.9
Re: changing front axle ujoint - 12/12/13 05:32 PM
What's it on? a normal dana 44 is pretty straight forward. A spindle nut socket definitely helps even though I've done it with a hammer and punch. On a full time system you will need a 12 point 3/8" (Not 100% sure on the size hopefully someone can help). To take the unit bearing off, it also has to be fairly narrow to fit into the hole.
Posted By: buildanother
Re: changing front axle ujoint - 12/12/13 05:37 PM
A chrome 3/8 drive 3/8" 12 point socket will get through the rotor on the pre 80 4x4's.
Posted By: CTD5.9
Re: changing front axle ujoint - 12/12/13 05:43 PM
Thanks, I forgot the size. I have a socket that was persuaded with a grinder to fit because it wouldn't for some reason.
Posted By: EV2CUDA
Re: changing front axle ujoint - 12/12/13 05:45 PM
Its on a 1979 360 engine. I think its a 44 front diff.
BTW, are all engines in these 4x4 trucks tilted to the driver side?
Posted By: 76dodgeboy
Re: changing front axle ujoint - 12/12/13 05:55 PM
Search YouTube. Lots of how to videos.
Posted By: EV2CUDA
Re: changing front axle ujoint - 12/12/13 07:56 PM
Took me a bit but found the caliper bracket needed to come off too. Glad I bought a slide puller years ago !
Posted By: CTD5.9
Re: changing front axle ujoint - 12/12/13 08:13 PM
yes, on a half ton they do. If it remember right you can wiggle them out on a 3/4 ton. I broke 6 front u-joints mud bogging this year, got some quality experience changing them that I would rather not have.
Posted By: EV2CUDA
Re: changing front axle ujoint - 12/13/13 12:17 AM
Well I managed to screw up this part. A seal or ring that goes in first before the bearing. What is it and where can I get one?
Posted By: poorboy
Re: changing front axle ujoint - 12/13/13 06:35 AM
Congratulations, now you get to buy a new $100 bearing. Probably needed it anyway. They didn't live long most of the time, few guys ever greased them like there were suppose be have had done. Gene
Posted By: EV2CUDA
Re: changing front axle ujoint - 12/17/13 11:04 PM
The part I need is called a seal cup. It holds the inner seal in place. Local napa lists no part. ??? Ideas?