Ford F2AZ-4635-A U-Joint Repair Kit

Single-cardan U-joints on some 1970 through 1988 models and all 1989 and later models can be replaced by following these steps. First, remove the driveshaft and snap-rings from the spider. Place the driveshaft on a workbench equipped with a vise and use a pipe or large socket to press out the bearing caps. Transfer the sockets to the other side and press out the opposite bearing cap. Pack the new universal joint bearings with grease and position the spider in the yoke. Install the bearing caps and snap-rings, then fill the joint with grease. Finally, reinstall the driveshaft. For double-cardan U-joints, remove the snap-rings and mark the relationship of the components. Press out the bearing caps and remove the centering ball and dust cover. Install new components and press in the bearing caps. Install new snap-rings and reassemble the front U-joint by removing the centering socket.

There are two main types of universal joints.

Remove the first bearing cup by pressing the trunnion in the opposite direction, then repeat the operations on the other two cups.

Another method to check for universal joint wear is to: 1. Use a pry bar inserted into the gap between the universal joint and the driveshaft or flange. 2. Leave the vehicle in gear and try to pry the joint both radially and axially. 3. Any looseness should be apparent with this method.

A press or large vise.

The steps are as follows: 1. Remove the driveshaft and snap-rings from the spider. 2. Place the driveshaft on a workbench equipped with a vise. 3. Use a pipe or large socket to press out the bearing caps. 4. Transfer the sockets to the other side and press out the opposite bearing cap. 5. Pack the new universal joint bearings with grease. 6. Position the spider in the yoke. 7. Install the bearing caps and snap-rings. 8. Fill the joint with grease. 9. Reinstall the driveshaft.

The steps to replace double-cardan U-joints are as follows: 1. Remove the snap-rings and mark the relationship of the components. 2. Press out the bearing caps. 3. Remove the centering ball and dust cover. 4. Install new components. 5. Press in the bearing caps. 6. Install new snap-rings. 7. Reassemble the front U-joint by removing the centering socket.

Partially install one bearing cap, start the spider into the bearing cap, and then partially install the other cap. Align the spider and press the bearing caps into position.

Place the driveshaft in a vise with a small socket pushing the joint and bearing cap into a larger socket.

Universal joints are composed of a yoke on each side connected by a crosspiece called a trunnion. Cups at each end of the trunnion contain needle bearings, and snap-rings hold the assembly together.

Extract the snap-rings from the ends of the bearing cups.

You can find details on universal joint lubrication in Chapter 1. Additionally, refer to the routine maintenance schedule at the beginning of Chapter 1.

A local dealer service department, service station, or machine shop.