OEM 2003 Chevrolet Tracker Universal Joint

2003 Chevrolet Tracker Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to service and repair the universal joint on 2003 Chevrolet Tracker?

  A: Start by taking out the propeller shaft from your vehicle plus the 2 snap rings attached to the pinion flange yoke. Place GM part 1052864 (Canadian 992881) moisture free lubricant on the exterior of the joint bearing caps at the pinion flange yoke. Insert a 18 mm socket driver and a 24 mm socket support into a soft-jaw vise. Press the pinion flange yoke between the tools until you expose bearing caps 3 to 4 mm (0.12 to 0.16 inch). Tap gently with a hammer on the pinion flange yoke until the 18 mm socket slides into the space through its hole. Gently press the 18 mm socket through to reach the other bearing cap. Follow the same steps to take out the opposite bearing cap and then the pinion flange yoke from the spider. Insert the 18 mm socket into one bearing cap opening and hold it safely with a soft-jaw vise set to 18 mm with a 24 mm socket. Adjust it to expose the bearing cap approximately 3 - 4 mm (0.12 - 0.16 inch). Install this method on the second bearing cap which is opposite its original location. Test both yokes after disassembling the spider for deformation and faults then replace the pinion flange yoke when necessary. The universal joint must be replaced as one complete unit if you spot damaged needle bearings or wear on the bearing surfaces of the spider during this inspection. Place the needle bearings properly first before putting the spider inside the propeller shaft yoke. Add lubricant to the bearing caps during installation. Hold the propeller shaft yoke with one bearing cap until it easily fits then put on the opposite bearing cap until a snap ring can be added. Examine the position of the snap ring after you put it in its place. Apply the opposite bearing cap into each yoke using 18 mm and 24 mm sockets in a soft-jaw holder until snap rings can be added for both yokes. Put the prop shaft back into its regular position in the vehicle.