There is a write-up in the tech section here on exactly how to do it.

It is even called Changing U-joints on a Dana 30. I have it on pretty good authority that the guy who wrote it would be happy to answer any questions you had as long as you don't act like an asshat.

The only Xj's with CV-joints were the early(84-85) ones with full-time.

If you are going to be replacing a ball joint. You do need some way to press it out. But you can borrow one from AutoZone or O'Reillys. But for a U-joint... no need for one.

 

no you don't need that if you are just replacing the u joint

but its not a bad idea to do it
you can usually rent one or barrow from auto parts store for 10 to 15 bucks
some will let you use it for free depending on how much you spend there

post a picture

 

My auto teacher brought in a new mechanic from the bus detachment for the district. The new mechanic said that where the yoke comes out of the axle has moved an inch out of the differential. So he said thats why you need a special press to get the axle back into the diff or something. I will take a pic and post tomorrow but the mechanic said that he doesnt wanna deal with it because it could be a garage sale of jeep parts on the highway if something goes wrong. Is this a common problem or anyone ever heard of this happening?


Dan, Pics to come.

 

Unless something has catastrophically failed its extremely unlikely. The hub nut keeps the shaft from moving out of the differential. The unit hub engages the splines on the outside yoke and keeps the shaft from going anywhere. IF the u-joint completely failed and broke, or the ears on the yoke broke allowing the movement then the shaft just can't move. Pics would help... but it certainly sounds like these two should stick to buses and teaching.

 

they have no clue what they are saying ask them if they have ever had a Dana 30 apart
if not then why are they arguing with people that have and know what they are doing

 

The 12 pt socket is a 13 not a 14 i do believe

And there is a write up posted on the u joint changing heres the link

https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f51/how-change-u-joints-dana-30-a-3689/

Hopefully helps a little bit more!

 

this sight will give you a break down of the d30

http://www.tellico4x4.com/images/products/omix/d30.pdf

 

This is the first one he was talking about that little gap

and the second one.

 

There is nothing wrong with that at all... that stupid plastic cap wears out and will end up sliding closer to the yoke.

 

How do i repair the plastic cap?? or will that be fixed when i replace the u joints?

 

Don't even worry about it. Just replace your u joints and re-install the shafts. That plastic piece is only there to try and keep as much crap out of the axle tube as possible. The oil seal is in close to the pumpkin is the important seal. Those plastic caps just go wherever they want on mine with no problems

 

inner axle dust shield
you would need to order two and when you have the axles out to fix the
ujoints you can replace them
not a big deal but I would get them sense you will have thing apart

 

get a pic of the u joint
the ones you posted don't show the joint well
and they don't look all that bad
are you sure its not the ball joints that are bad


if the flange in the picture moves in and out when you wiggle the wheel
then its probably the ball joints

 

the special tool i used to replace my 230k mile u joints on my recently purchased 88.. was a grinder to cut the damn things to get em outa the axles. After that a BIG vice and ALOT of muscle. Put in new McQuay-Norris Ujoints.. much tougher than stock .. not as good as spicers though I hear.. i didnt do enough research first.. but they look better and it stopped clunking LOL.

 

he was pulling on the rotor when he showed me that it was very soft and could be wiggled in and out. I had a repair sheet done by a certified and trusted mechanic before i began this endeavour, he said the passenger was loose and rusted and didnt mention anything about the ball joints. I havent driven it alot since i got it so hopefully the ball joints are okay. I went and purchased 2 u joints i figure i will take Stumpers advice and do both of them at the same time. Is their any test that i could do to make absolutely sure that the ball joints are okay?? my brother wrecked his car because they came loose around a corner awhile ago.


Thanks for the much needed help,
Dan