Front Double Cardan U Joint Replacement

[f2502011]

Are replacement double cardan u joints available for an early bronco front driveshaft? If so where is a good place to buy? What is involved in the replacement? Trying to figure out if it's something I want to try myself or have someone else do.

 

[Pokey71]

It looks more complicated than it really is. Its just a puzzle.

 

[Jeff76]

It's definately doable for the average guy with a press or large vise. Just study it real closely before disassembly. The disassembly order matters. Mark the yoke and collars before you take it apart so you can put it back the same way.

The parts are available locally at NAPA or via JBG, Toms, etc.

 

[Broncobowsher]

There are 2 styles of front CV. One is common and easy to get parts for, the other isn't.

As long as the centering ball is good they can be rebuilt. If the centering ball is bad, the whole joint needs to be cutoff and replaced by a driveshaft shop.

 

[yjzonie]

There are 2 styles of front CV. One is common and easy to get parts for, the other isn't.

As long as the centering ball is good they can be rebuilt. If the centering ball is bad, the whole joint needs to be cutoff and replaced by a driveshaft shop.

You are correct, there are two styles the Borg Warner CV which needs to be replaced and the Spicer series, which are completely rebuildable even the CV centering ball. The only part not reparable is the Stud yoke ( if the stud pin is worn out) If your centering ball is bad the Spicer part # is 044 if I remember right. All U-joint can be replaced easily even without a vice or press. I never use a vise or press. Ball Peen hammer and a good grip. Good luck!!!

 

[f2502011]

Bronco is a 76 and the driveshaft is a spicer with the snap rings on the outside. Does that mean the centering yoke is spicer too?

I'm trying to decide whether to go for a whole new shaft or dig in. I got an estimate from a local shop to rebuild the shaft and they want about what it would cost for a whole new shaft at $189.

I've done U-Joints before but never a Double-Cardan. I need to figure out whether or not I will be able to do this myself or to get a new one?

I see the rebuild kits that the vendors sale. I'd like to find the parts locally, but haven't been able to find anything at one of the local parts suppliers like NAPA, Autozone, O'Reilly's, Pep Boys etc. I've searched their websites but no luck. I need to figure this out soon cause I'm anxious to get it back together and I know it will take a few days to get either the parts or the new shaft from one of the vendors if I have to order.

 

[Broncobowsher]

OK, you have a price for a new one...
Take the old one apart. If you totally butcher it, you know the cost to replace it. Once the old one is apart you can loot at what it needs, see if it is even rebuildable, add up the parts and see which option is better. Worst case is you take it apart and end up tossing it for a new one. Even then you will now have pratice taking one apart.

 

[blubuckaroo]

It's pretty easy. I use a hammer and an old socket to disassemble and large "C" clamp to reassemble. Just make sure when you reassemble that the zerks will be in position to be serviceable. This is important knowledge for trail break-downs.

 

[Jeff76]

OK, you have a price for a new one...
Take the old one apart. If you totally butcher it, you know the cost to replace it. Once the old one is apart you can loot at what it needs, see if it is even rebuildable, add up the parts and see which option is better. Worst case is you take it apart and end up tossing it for a new one. Even then you will now have pratice taking one apart.

This is good advice. It's easier than you think.