Genuine Chevrolet Astro Universal Joint

Chevrolet Astro Universal Joint Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Joint Kit,Front Axle Propeller Shaft Universal
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  Q: What tools and steps are required for replacing a universal joint in a driveshaft on Chevrolet Astro?

  A: A press or large vise will be needed for this procedure and it may be to the persons benefit to take the driveshaft to a dealer or machine shop to have the universal joint replaced and it should not cost too much money. First of all, it is required to uninstall the driveshaft. Getting into the spider with small pliers, if you have the original front universal joints, be prepared to find that they have plastic injected retainer instead of the rings. When finally reassembling, it is necessary to make use of some snap-rings, which are provided with the new universal joint. Place the driveshaft in a manner whereby its axel is supported and then place it on an arbor press or use a workbench with a vise. Take a piece of pipe or any large socket of the same inside diameter over one of the bearing caps and place the other socket slightly smaller than it on the other cap. When the cap would not come out, or when only part of it sticks out, use the vise or press to force the cap out until it is approximately 0,5mm from the end of the yoke then put this cap between the jaws of the vise or large pliers and remove it gently as it could shear off easily. Take the sockets and move to the other side of the car and press the other side of the bearing cap in the same way. Coat the new universal joint bearings with grease, as indicated, by the servicing kit, or as directed on the manufacturer's instructions. Put the spider in the position in the yoke and screw only one bearing cap partially and then rotate the spider in to the cap and screw only partially the other bearing cap. Position the spider as shown in figure 16-6 and install the bearing caps without damaging the dust seals. Fit the two snap-rings and in case they fail to engage the groove strike the driveshaft yoke lightly with a hammer in order to release tension so that the snap rings can be fitted well. The same steps have also to be followed for replacement of the rear universal joint, but only half of the spider has to be pressed out because two other ends fit directly on the pinion flange with straps and bolts. Last but not the least, fits back the driveshaft and all other components that have been removed earlier.