How to Remove the Universal Joint Cross?
3 Answers
To remove the universal joint cross, follow these steps: 1. First, remove the cover plate bolts, then take off the cover plate and the universal joint cross needle bearing housing. 2. After removing the lock rings of the other two needle bearing housings of the universal joint cross, support the two journals of the universal joint cross with your hands, and gently tap the edge of the universal joint yoke of the drive shaft or the telescopic sleeve with a hammer to push out the bearing housing with the universal joint cross. 3. During removal, avoid striking the edge of the bearing housing mounting hole or the bottom of the bearing housing. Assembly steps: 1. Clean all parts thoroughly. 2. Apply a small amount of grease inside the bearing housing and install the bearing needles. 3. Reinstall the needle bearing cover, felt, and washer onto the universal joint cross journals, then fit the universal joint cross into the universal joint yoke with the grease nipple facing the drive shaft, and install the bearing housing (aligning the groove with the screw hole). Ensure there is no jamming or looseness. Finally, secure the bolts with lock plates. After assembly, the tightness should allow free rotation without looseness. The fit clearance between the universal joint yoke hole and the bearing housing is 0-0.04mm. The bearing housing should not be stuck with the oil seal seat and unable to rotate. After passing inspection, apply grease again.
I remember the last time I disassembled the driveshaft universal joint, it was quite a challenging task. First, you need to jack up the car and securely support the chassis with a jack stand to prevent accidents. Then, remove the fixing bolts of the driveshaft assembly—this step is crucial, so don't force it. Next, tackle the universal joint, which usually has four bearing snap rings. You'll need small snap ring pliers or a flathead screwdriver to pry them out. After that, carefully tap the universal joint seat with a large hammer and a punch, but avoid striking too hard to prevent bending the driveshaft. If it's rusty, spray some WD-40 lubricant to loosen it up. Once disassembled, remember to clean the bearing seat and check if the new universal joint needs lubrication. The whole process takes at least an hour, so it's best to have a full set of tools ready, including a socket wrench, safety gloves, and goggles. If you're a beginner and find it too difficult, it's advisable to call for help or watch a roadside mechanic do it first.
From my experience in mechanical maintenance, the key to disassembling a driveshaft universal joint lies in the tools. I always prepare a press or a C-clamp to push out the universal joint bearings, which is much safer than using a hammer. First, loosen the driveshaft end connector, and all the snap rings will come off with a single squeeze of the pliers. When prying, observe the direction of the universal joint to avoid misalignment, then slowly press or tap out the components. Key points to note: Old universal joints are often worn or corroded, so don’t rush the pressing process—excessive force can damage the joint housing. Add a magnetic tray to your tool list to keep small parts from getting lost. After disassembly, cleaning metal shavings is a must, and it’s a good time to check the driveshaft balance—shake it to see if there’s any looseness. If I’m doing it myself, I always take photos to record the positions for easier reassembly. A press tool costing around 150 yuan can save a lot of hassle and time.
