Can you replace U-joints without a press?

Can you replace U-joints without a press?

Some people will tell you that you’ll need a hydraulic press in order to replace U-joints—those people are wrong. The truth is that with a few sockets you probably already have in the toolbox, a hammer, and a basic bench vise, you can easily knock out worn U-joints and wrap up the repair as an afternoon project.

How do you check the u-joint on a Ford Ranger?

If a u-joint is excessively worn, there’s an easy test you can perform. With your foot on the brake, shift the car into reverse. Then, shift into drive. If the vehicle makes a clunking sound, or you can feel it knock one time after engagement, a u-joint is likely the culprit.

How do you tell if you have a bad u-joint?

Signs of a Bad U-Joint

1. Clunking or Clanging. Your vehicle’s U-joint may eventually wear at connecting points to the drive-shaft.
2. Vibrations. If your driveshaft is out of balance, it’s often because of a defective universal joint.
3. Grinding or Chirping.
4. Loud Banging.

How hard is it to replace U-joints?

Replacing these joints is a fairly straightforward job, though it takes some prior experience. To begin, you’ll need a universal joint pressing tool. You can also take advantage of the loaner tools program at your local Advance Auto Parts store. Then follow these step-by-step instructions on how to change U joints.

What happens when u-joint fails?

What Happens When a U-Joint Fails? When a u-joint fails, your vehicle breaks down and stops moving. There may also be extensive damage to the underside of the vehicle and potentially to the driveline itself. The u-joint is a small part, but it can cause thousands of dollars in repairs if it completely fails.

Where are the U joints located?

rear drive shaft
U-joints are found on each of the ends of the rear drive shaft, whereas CV-joints are found on front wheel drive cars. Each allows the drive shaft to rotate as the differential moves in relation to the rest of drive train mounted on the chassis.

What happens when u-joint goes bad?

A bad u-joint can cause a clunking sound or jerkiness while driving, particularly when letting off of and pressing the accelerator. A bad u-joint can also cause vibration at certain speeds, emanating from the center or rear of the vehicle.

How long can you drive with bad U joints?

A car with a bad U-joint will break down in a few hundred miles at the maximum. But if you have a bad U-joint and you are having a transmission fluid leakage, you should not drive your car since the U-joint may break down anytime and will cause damage to the brake line, drive shaft, transmission line and other parts.

How much does it cost to have U-joints replaced?

The average price for the u joint replacement cost ranges between $190 and $260 for the replacement, while the labor on this job runs between $170 and $210 on aveage, with the parts ranging between $20 and $50. Keep in mind, the average u joint replacement cost will vary depending on the type of vehicle you have.

What sound does a bad u-joint make?

clunking sound
A bad u-joint can cause a clunking sound or jerkiness while driving, particularly when letting off of and pressing the accelerator. A bad u-joint can also cause vibration at certain speeds, emanating from the center or rear of the vehicle.