Fouled up u-joint installation?

[Kevin Q]

I tried to install a new u joint into my 05 TJR front driveshaft. Followed the youtube instructions but I think I have a problem. When I get the caps fully in so I can get the inside clip installed it results in the joint being super tight to move. Is this normal? I used a MOOG 290 and thought maybe a pin bearing was off so I removed them and checked.

 

[L0jik]

If I understand you right, thats normal when you install a new u-joint. It needs some time to break in and loosen up a bit. If your comparing how easy it is to move the new joint compared to the old joint, thats just what freshly installed ujoints are like.

 

[Jerry Bransford]

You need to use a BFH (big effing hammer) to smack both sides of the yoke holding the u-joint bearing caps so inertia will drive the bearing caps outward relieving the binding. This is a normal thing when installing new u-joints.

 

[707kevin]

You need to use a BFH (big effing hammer) to smack both sides of the yoke holding the u-joint bearing caps so inertia will drive the bearing caps outward relieving the binding. This is a normal thing when installing new u-joints.

View attachment 197468

And they will still feel a bit "tight" by hand compared to the old worn out ones. So dont wail on them with a 12lb maul thinking they should be loose feeling. Maybe that's a common sense thing lol. A couple of good whacks really sets the caps though.

 

[Head Lice]

The hammer is your friend . . . .

 

[Kevin Q]

BFH fix complete. Thanks guys!