Q: How to replace the universal joint with an external snap ring on Cadillac Escalade?
A: To replace the universal joint with an external snap ring, begin by gathering the necessary tools: You need U-Joint Bearing Separator (J9522-3) and U-Joint Bearing Spacer Remover (J9522-5). Set the propeller shaft horizontally on the press with caution to avoid damaging the tubing directly. Make notes on the ends of the propeller shaft to help reinstall it correctly. The dismantling of snap rings requires plier manipulation followed by possible cup end tapping to release pressure. Position the U-Joint Bearing Separator (J9522-3) over the open horizontal bearing cups of a supported lower yoke ear which you should attach either a 30 mm (1-1/8 inch) hex head socket or 27 mm (1-1/16 inch) socket. To completely remove the bearing cup use the J9522-5 U-Joint Bearing Spacer Remover between the bearing cup and seal while continuing to press it out. Follow this by marking the slip yoke's position to the tube and proceeding with cross and universal joint components removal. The assembly process needs to start only after checking that bearing cup bores and retaining ring grooves are clean of imperfections. Assemble the parts by inserting a bearing cup into one yoke side and pressing the cross into place until the bearing cup reaches full contact. After aligning the trunnions properly you should press the opposite bearing cup into the yoke to perform free movement checks. Check the needle bearings whenever you detect binding. Press the bearing retainer until both retainers snap into position once you see the retainer groove. Apply a dead blow hammer to slightly flex the yoke while you apply chassis grease to the snap ring to help the retainer seat properly.
Q: How to replace the universal joint with a nylon injected ring using special tools on Cadillac Escalade ESV?
A: Special tools J-9522-3 and J-9522-5 allow easy replacement of the universal joint with a nylon injected ring. Position the propeller shaft horizontally on the press system before starting the job to prevent damage to the parts. Locate and note the positions of the propeller shaft's ends before using the 30 mm (1 1/8 in) socket to hold the bottom yoke ear. The U Joint Bearing Separator will sever the plastic holding ring while the lower bearing cup press fully from the yoke ear. The U Joint Bearing Spacer Remover goes between seal and bearing cup to push out the bearing cup when it fails to come out entirely. Use the prop shaft rotation to push the opposite bearing cup out leaving the slip yoke stance notated for later reinstallation. Check both retaining ring groves and bearing cup bores on the yoke to find any surface damages before removing them. Remove all sheared plastic from the grooves before installing new bearing cups. You must place the yoke ear down and insert one bearing cup half-way into the part before fitting the cross effectively. Push the bearing cup into the yoke until it reaches the surface and then push half the second bearing cup. Press the final bearing cup sideways when its trunnions fit straight. Check needle bearing alignment because of this action. Press the tools until the bearing retainer slot meets the yoke opening then build the assembly parts and press them until the retainers lock into place. Use a dead blow hammer to partially push the yoke but do not force it. Apply chassis grease to the snap ring when placing it into the bearing cup groove.
Q: How to replace the universal joint with an external snap ring on Cadillac Escalade EXT?
A: To install the external snap ring in place of the universal joint, you need to first collect: You should have the U-Joint Bearing Separator J 9522-3 and the U-Joint Bearing Spacer Remover (J 9522-5). Hold the propeller shaft level with supports below the tubing to make sure you don't damage it. First, make sure you mark the ends of the propeller shaft, followed by disassembling the snap rings by pinching them with pliers. Should the ring be hard to remove, tapping the cup gently will make it easier. Put the 30 mm (1-1/8 in) hex head socket or 27 mm (1-1/16 in) socket under the lower ear of the yoke, then push the lower bearing cup out with the U-Joint Bearing Separator (J 9522-3). You can also use the U-Joint Bearing Spacer Remover (J 9522-5) if required to help get the bearing cup out. Rotate the propeller shaft so the other bearing cup is pushed out, and mark the slip yoke so it goes back together properly. Take out the cross and all the remaining parts, and look over the retaining ring grooves as well as the bearing cup bores to make sure they are clean and free of damage. Put a bearing cup into one ear of the yoke, then put the cross in and make sure it moves freely. Make sure the bearing cup is fully against the yoke ear, and repeat on the other side, making sure everything is lined up. Once you notice the groove for the retainer, put in the bearing retainer and press firmly until both retainers lock. Sometimes, it helps to use a dead blow hammer to make the yoke easier to spring, and always use chassis grease on the snap ring for correct fitting in the groove.