Driveshaft Universal Joint - Single Cardan, Flange Yoke: Assembly

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Ford Pickup, 2004 Ford F550 Super Duty, 2004 Ford F450 Super Duty, 2004 Ford Excursion, and 2004 Ford Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Bearing cup installation

NOTE: Install the Universal Joint Kits as complete assemblies only. Do not mix components from other Kits.

Fig 1: Installing Spider And Bearing Cups

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Install a new spider and bearing cups.
1. Start a new bearing cup in the driveshaft yoke.
  - Check the needle bearings for correct positioning.
2. Position the new spider in the driveshaft yoke.
3. Position the driveshaft yoke in the special tool.
4. Press the bearing cup to just below the snap ring groove.
  - Repeat to install the new bearing cup on the opposite side of the driveshaft yoke.
Flange installation
Inspect the flange. Install a new flange, if necessary.
Install the new bearing cups and the flange.
1. Start a new bearing cup in the flange.
  - Check the needle bearings for correct positioning.
2. Position the flange on the spider.
3. Position the assembly in the special tool.
4. Press the bearing cup to just below the snap ring groove.
  - Repeat to install the new bearing cup on the opposite side of the flange.
Fig 2: Installing Bearing Cups And Flange
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Final assembly

NOTE: Use the yellow snap rings supplied in the kit to assemble the universal joint (U-joint). If difficulty is encountered with the yellow snap rings, install the black snap rings.

Fig 3: Installing Snap Rings

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Remove the driveshaft from the special tool, and install the four new snap rings.

CAUTION: Do not strike the bearings.

Fig 4: Checking U-Joint For Freedom Of Movement

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Check the U-joint for freedom of movement.
- If binding, strike the yoke with a brass or plastic hammer.