I'm trying to get the rear drive shaft off a 98 xj to change the u joints. I took off the two retainers that hold the back cross piece to the diff, but I can't seem to get it to come free form there. It seems there must be some trick to get the cross piece free so I can slide the front out. Any tips?

Sorry for asking such a rookie question, but I couldn't find the answer by searching.

 

hit it with something? should just come out.. may just need some help

 

Tap the ends of the u-joint with a hammer.

 

Tap-y tap-y tap tap.....just like Happy Gilmore.

 

Just put a screw driver in there and give it a tap with a hammer. Its probably ben in there since the factory and is a little seased same with the t-case side give that a good yank.

 

Try getting a pry bar in there.

 

don't hit the end cap with a hammer, you might end up breaking the cast in retainer off the other side.

use a pry bar and get it in between the u-joint and the pinion and gently give it a pry away from the diff.

the u-joint is still attached to the driveshaft...

 

Thanks for the help.

When I finally got it to move one of the caps stayed attached to the diff side, had to hammer it off. Glad I decided to change 'em.