GM 89040245
Universal Joints

You need two tools for swapping out the universal joint snap ring - specifically the J 9522-3 U-Joint Bearing Separator and J 9522-5 U-Joint Bearing Spacer Remover. Set the propeller shaft horizontally across a press before beginning while taking care to prevent tubing damage by using vise clamps. Apply temporary marks to the propeller shaft's extremities for correct post-installation alignment. Remove snap rings through plier pinching while end cup light tapping helps reduce the pressure. Oil J 9522-3 with the lower yoke ear opened by securing it into either a 30 mm (1-1/8 inch) hex head socket or a 27 mm (1-1/16 inch) socket. Then use J 9522-3 to push the lower bearing cup out of the yoke ear. To complete the removal of an uncooperative bearing cup lift the cross downward and slip J 9522-5 between the seal and cup to proceed with pressing it out. Use propeller shaft rotation to push out the bearing cup at the opposite end while recording the slip yoke's position to the tube. After removing the cross and universal joint components, check the bearing cup bores and retaining ring grooves for any imperfections or unclean areas. First position half of a bearing cup inside one yoke side before assembling the cross allowing the trunnion to fit without resistance. Use bearing tools to drive the bearing cup until it contacts the yoke ear before repeating this process on the other side and verifying correct trunnion alignment. Check the needle bearings when you experience binding during installation procedures. After the retainer groove for the bearing cup becomes visible you must build the bearing retainer assembly before pressing both retainers to snap into position. The dead blow hammer can help spring the yoke surface slightly before you install the retainers. To facilitate seating you should use chassis grease on the snap rings.

Inspect the retaining ring grooves and bearing cup bores for debris or imperfections, cleaning as necessary.

Lubricate the snap ring with chassis grease for easier installation.

Ensure the propeller shaft is supported horizontally on a press table, avoiding clamping the tubing in a vise to prevent damage.

Insert the opposite bearing cup partially, ensuring the trunnions align straight into both cups, and press it in while checking for free movement.

Press until the retainer groove is visible.

Support it on a 30 mm (1-1/8 inch) hex head socket or a 27 mm (1-1/16 inch) socket.

Inspect the retaining ring grooves and bearing cup bores for cleanliness and imperfections.

Place a bearing cup into one side of the yoke, insert the cross, and press the bearing cup until flush.

U Joint Bearing Separator (J 9522-3) and U Joint Bearing Spacer Remover (J 9522-5).

Insert a bearing cup partway into one side of the yoke, then assemble the cross so the trunnion seats freely.

Yes, lubricate the snap ring with chassis grease if needed for proper placement in the bearing cup groove.

Continue pressing until the bearing retainer groove clears the yoke, then install the bearing retainer and press until both retainers snap into place.