To take care of and repair a universal joint with an external snap ring, use the proper tools: You will also need to use the Universal Joint Bearing Separator (J 9522-3) and the Universal Joint Bearing Spacer Remover (J 9522-5). First, use a press to support the propeller shaft flat, making sure you don't use a vise on the tubing. Put marks on the ends of the propeller shaft for correct reinstallation. Hold the snap ring ends with pliers and, if required, tap the cup slightly to help it come off. Place a 30 mm (1-1/8 inch) hex head socket or a 27 mm (1-1/16 inch) socket under the lower ear of the yoke, and use the Universal Joint Bearing Separator (J 9522-3) on the open horizontal bearing cups to force the lower bearing cup from the yoke ear. If the cup won't come out all the way, put the Universal Joint Bearing Spacer Remover (J 9522-5) between the seal and the cup to keep pressing. Rotate the propeller shaft so the bearing cup at the other end can be pressed out, mark the yoke's direction, and take out the cross and other universal joint parts. Clean and inspect both the retaining ring grooves and bearing cup bores before you put things back together. To assemble, put a bearing cup into one side of the yoke, locate the cross, and press the cup all the way in so it is even with the yoke ear. Do the same steps for the opposite bearing cup, making sure the trunnions are properly aligned. Once the retainer groove appears, put the bearing retainer in and keep pressing until the other retainer is also in place. A dead blow hammer can be used to give the yoke a slight bend for easier retainer installation, plus chassis grease on the snap ring will help it go on smoothly.