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Home >> GMC >> 2003 >> Safari Van Cargo, AWD >> Repair and Diagnosis >> Drivelines & Axles >> Driveshaft & Universal Joints >> Propeller Shaft And Universal Joints >> Repair Instructions >> Universal Joint Replacement - External Snap Ring >> Removal Procedure

Removal Procedure

NOTE: Never clamp propeller shaft tubing in a vise. Clamping propeller shaft tubing in a vise could dent or deform the tube causing an imbalance or unsafe condition. Always clamp on one of the yokes and support the shaft horizontally. Avoid damaging the slip yoke sealing surface. Nicks may damage the bushing or cut the lip seal.
  1. Remove the propeller shaft. Refer to PROPELLER SHAFT REPLACEMENT - FRONT  or PROPELLER SHAFT REPLACEMENT - REAR .
  2. Support the propeller shaft in a line horizontal with the table of a press.
  3. Mark the propeller shaft in order to show which end connects to the transmission or transfer case and which end connects to the rear or front axle.
  4. Remove the snap rings.
    • Pinch the ends of the snap ring together with a pair of pliers.
    • If a snap ring does not readily snap out of the groove in the yoke, tap the end of the bearing cup lightly in order to relieve the pressure from the ring.
    Fig 1: Exploded View Of External Snap Ring
    G01642887Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  5. Place the universal joint so that the lower ear of the yoke is supported on a 30 mm (1 1/8 in) socket.
  6. Press the lower bearing cup out of the yoke ear. Use the J 9522-3. 
    Fig 2: Pressing Lower Bearing Cup Out Of Yoke Ear Using J 9522-3
    G01642888Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  7. If the bearing cup is not completely removed, do the following:
    1. 7.1. Lift the cross and insert the J 9522-5  between the seal and the bearing cup.
      Fig 3: Inserting J 9522-5 Between Seal & Bearing Cup
      G01642889Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
    2. 7.2. Continue pressing the bearing cup out of the yoke.
  8. Rotate the propeller shaft and press the opposite bearing cup out of the yoke.
  9. Remove the cross from the yoke.
    Fig 4: Removing Cross From Yoke
    G01642890Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  10. Remove the remaining universal joint parts from the yoke.
  11. If you are replacing the front universal joint (rear axle only), remove the bearing cups in the slip yoke in the same manner.
  12. Inspect the retaining ring grooves for dirt, corrosion, or pieces of the old ring.
  13. Inspect the bearing cup bores for burrs or imperfections.

    Important:  Corrosion or dirt may prevent the bearing cup installation and may prohibit the proper seating of the bearing retainers.

  14. Clean the retaining ring grooves.
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