Tips on Removing D44 U-joints?

[Scotty]

I'm tearing down a full-width, high pinion Dana 44. I'm down to the axle shafts and need some suggestions on the removal of the Universal Joints.

I removed the snap rings. On my first attempt, I successfully pressed the cap out one side and then turned the yolk 180 degrees and tried to press the other cap out of its side. It didn't want to go through straight. I backed it out and tried again. It still doesn't want to go through its bore straight. I believe that I can muscle it through crooked, but I'm worried about the bore.

To your collective knowledge, is there any risk of the cap shaving a groove in its yolk bore if it doesn't pass through straight?

Is this a real problem, or am I just being paranoid?

Thanks,
Scotty

 

[supermottl]

try using different sized sockets to press out the u-joint and then use the BFH. sometimes they ned some persuation

 

[Nobody]

Here's a trick that will easily remove the most stubborn u-joints.

Place the shaft in the vise as seen below. Note that you are NOT clamping the shaft, just using the vise for something solid. Then use your BFH and hit firmly at the position shown in the pic.

Out on the trail, you can use one side of your bumper or something. Works almost as well.

Let me know how it works.