I'm trying to change my axle u-joints. I got these from Autozone:

http://www.autozone.com/autozone/cat...&parentId=12-0

When I pounded both caps in enough to install the c-clips, the joint got really stiff hard to turn. I'm assuming this means they're slightly to big? Can anyone recommend ones that fit?

This thing is not being driven offroad so I don't need really heavy-duty (expensive) ones.

 

it sounds like you may have pounded them in a bit too far, I did that when I installed the u-joints on my rear axel. you might want to try doing a partial re-install being careful to not press the caps in too far.

 

Rap the yokes sharply with about a 16 oz ball peen hammer several times...it will usually relieve stress in the yokes and allow them to move freely.

 

measure the inside part of the ujoint I had problems on my 96 with ujoints from autozone

 

Thanks I'll try measuring and if it's right I'll reinstall.

 

usually its Pepboys that gives out the wrong parts around me.... i had an S10 for my first vehicle (every vehicle since that.....jeep) and i had to bring back 3 d-shaft u-joints.... and they still didn't get it right on the last one so i gave up

 

I compared the Duralast part with the old Spicer joint and it seems to be identical.

I tried reinstalling it several times, but I keep ending up with it being stiff in one direction.

On one side, it moves freely and if I pick up the stub shaft parallel to the floor and let go, it immediately falls under it's own weight. On the other side, though, it gets stuck in the middle and requires force to be exerted on it to get it to move all the way to the bottom.

This is my first time dealing with u-joints so maybe this isn't a problem... I don't know?

Also I tried swapping for the other Duralast joint I bought, but same situation.

 

Its possible you have a bent u-joint ear that is causing enough pressure for the joint to have a minimal bind in it.

 

The one that I removed moved freely, but it was pretty old and definitely need replacing.

Is it a problem if it binds slightly? Is it going to shatter while I'm driving at high speed?

 

SIf you decide to rebuild them yet again stick with Spicer joints and you may not have that problem. I have used Duralast joints when desperate but would not pick them if Spicer was available. JMHO

 

Listen to Blue, he doesn't have 16k+ posts for nothing

 

I don't know where to buy Spicer, can someone point me in the right direction?

Will it be safe to drive with this Duralast one even if it's binding slightly?

 

There's only one way to really find out

 

Hmm... that's not very comforting.

 

I know I know, I'd say play it safe if you don't wanna take the risk.