xrayjeeper83

Tried to replace my ujoint today, after running into problem after problem finally got around to trying to remove the ujoint itself. The bitch is rusted solid, won't come off. I tried using a large c-clamp and a hammer/socket method and nothing would budget. Yes I removed the c-clips, but I can't get shit to budge.

Anyone have any tips that might help?

pontiac31

I had the same problem on my 2500 ram. The ujoint was and original from 2000 and rusted bad. Ended up using a bigger hammer and the socket method. It took a lot of serious pounding.

xrayjeeper83

I'm soaking it in PB blaster now, I'll go out tomorrow morning and pound on it some more. So far I've deformed a socket to the point it will be trash after this

Rebar-7

You could try a small bottle neck jack Find something to press it againsed.
Some auto part stores will press them for you...

xrayjeeper83

Ended up taking it to a shop and even he struggled to get it apart. And I F'ed up and ear so I need a new stub shaft

SabrToothSqrl

I was going to say; depending on the hassle, some times it's quicker/easier to just replace whole assemblies...

actually, it's always quicker and easier... it's just not always cheaper.

xrayjeeper83

Wish I could afford to just replace it with chromoly shafts

afletche

when i changed mine the socket method didn't work and i didn't have a press. so i used the "hit the ear directly really hard with a BFH" - it did the job in about 15 seconds.

here's some details on the method if you have access to a vice JeepWire - Changing Axle Shaft U-Joints
if you are on the trail or have no vice, you can just use a piece of 2x4 and do the same basic thing. support one ear on the edge of the 2x4 and beat the crap out of the other ear right behind the U joint.