I'm installing new axle u joints and having a problem. After the new caps are pressed on I can't get both c clips on. I got one on and tried to press the other side through some more to get the c clip "channel" through and ended up cracking the top of the cap to pieces.

I'm using spicer 760-x joints, which from what I've read are correct for a 99 cherokee. It's like the joint arms are too long not letting the cap seat enough to install the clips. Any ideas? Thanks

 

Sounds like a needle bearing dropped into the center of one of the caps as you were pressing the caps into the yoke. That needle bearing broke the top of the cap as you were pressing the joint into the yoke. Use heavy grease to hold the bearings in the side of the cap. If they don't go all the way in you have to take it apart and reset the needle bearings.

 

I agree with knuckle, but measure the new up against the old just to be sure.

 

760's should fit in 99 axles, but measure your old ones to be sure you have 99 axles, and not something older. You never know what may have been swapped into a used rig.

Aside from that, sounds like a needle bearing like mentioned above.

 

Ok, the needle bearing droping into the center is probably what happened. Good tip on the heavy grease to keep them put. I went and grabbed a napa replacement and all seems well so far. Thanks guys