1971 Datsun 510, rear u joint

[racerx]

I think my rear, driver side u joint is going out because I hear a clanking sound when I move forward or backwards.  So how do you guys repair the u joint.  Any special tools or techniques? Thank you.

[Doctor510]

U-Tube or Google, need a hammer, vice and some patience 

[Dolomite]

To me, it's more effective use of time and money to have a driveline shop do it. It was like $30 per u joint and they rebalanced it as well.

[Busta Nut]

Hammer......

 

 

 

Vice.....

 

 

 

Make some noise........ B)

[racerx]

I may go with dolomite suggestion.  My lower back has been killing me.  It sucks getting old.

[banzai510(hainz)]

I have spare half shafts that are good and then get u jpoints replaced later

 

I jack up rear and move the tire while under there and its ez to spot

[docbainey]

What hainz said, have at least one spare half shaft ready to go.

 

When I've replaced them, the u joint, I've used a West Virginia hack saw to torch the cross of the joint apart. he said joint. Lots of fire due to grease! But all the heat helps removal and assembly of the needle bearing cups. Everything here on the North Coast has plenty of corrosion, so fire is your friend. It can be quite the pain in the az, big vise, big hammer, torch, that's what works for me, and  plenty of alcohol to numb any potential injuries.

[Noflers]

I haven't had a problem removing u-joints or installing them myself. With a big hammer and a couple good sized sockets, it's not too bad. Now that I have a bench vice, the work is cut in half, real easy.

[Stoffregen Motorsports]

Every car guy needs to know how to replace a u-joint. Losing a needle bearing or getting one crossed up under the cap is about the worst that could happen.