OEM Buick Universal Joint

Buick Universal Joint Parts and Q&A

• Universal Joints
  23104840
  Q: How to replace the universal joint with an external snap ring on Buick Rainier?

  A:

  To install the external snap ring in place of the universal joint, you need to first collect: You should have the U-Joint Bearing Separator J 9522-3 and the U-Joint Bearing Spacer Remover (J 9522-5). Hold the propeller shaft level with supports below the tubing to make sure you don't damage it. First, make sure you mark the ends of the propeller shaft, followed by disassembling the snap rings by pinching them with pliers. Should the ring be hard to remove, tapping the cup gently will make it easier. Put the 30 mm (1-1/8 in) hex head socket or 27 mm (1-1/16 in) socket under the lower ear of the yoke, then push the lower bearing cup out with the U-Joint Bearing Separator (J 9522-3). You can also use the U-Joint Bearing Spacer Remover (J 9522-5) if required to help get the bearing cup out. Rotate the propeller shaft so the other bearing cup is pushed out, and mark the slip yoke so it goes back together properly. Take out the cross and all the remaining parts, and look over the retaining ring grooves as well as the bearing cup bores to make sure they are clean and free of damage. Put a bearing cup into one ear of the yoke, then put the cross in and make sure it moves freely. Make sure the bearing cup is fully against the yoke ear, and repeat on the other side, making sure everything is lined up. Once you notice the groove for the retainer, put in the bearing retainer and press firmly until both retainers lock. Sometimes, it helps to use a dead blow hammer to make the yoke easier to spring, and always use chassis grease on the snap ring for correct fitting in the groove.