How do I Replace the U-Joints on a 2001 Silverado?

The U-joint on your Chevy Silverado controls and pivots the driveshaft. This joint needs to be replaced if it runs out of grease. As the name "universal" indicates, the joints are the same as on other vehicles, so changing them is very similar to other vehicle driveshafts and U-joints. Exact methods can vary depending on the universal joint replacement kit you use. The procedure for removing the driveshaft to change the joint depends on whether the truck has two or four-wheel drive.

Instructions

Removing the Shaft

1

With the engine off, raise the Silverado's rear end (or the front end if it's a four-wheel-drive truck and you're removing the front driveshaft) and support it on jack stands. If there is a skid plate blocking the front driveshaft, unbolt and remove it with a wrench.

2

Pry open the end of the clamp on the accordion-like boot over the transfer case's output shaft using pliers or a screwdriver and slide the boot away from the case. This is only needed on a front shaft.

3

Mark the relationship between the driveshaft and pinion flange at the universal joint using paint or whiteout. On a four-wheel-drive model, mark the shaft's relationship to the differential companion flange.

4

Remove the bolts and straps connecting the U-joint to the flange using a wrench. It will help to shove a large screwdriver through the driveshaft yoke to keep it from turning.

5

Lower the shaft and remove it from the transfer case or transmission. On a front driveshaft, push the shaft to the rear far enough to separate it from the differential flange.

Universal Joint

6

Insert the joint into a bench vise and pull the snap rings out of the yoke with needle nose pliers.

7

Insert a small piece of pipe into one end of the yoke and a large socket into the other end, then press the vise to press one bearing cap partially out of the yoke. Remove it from the vise and pull the cap out with locking pliers.

8

Repeat the previous step for the other bearing cap, placing the pipe and socket at the other ends, then remove the cross from the yoke.

9

Pack chassis grease into the new bearing caps for the needle rollers; the exact method needed will vary depending on the replacement kit.

10

Press one bearing cap into the yoke by a quarter-inch and insert the replacement cross into the cap. Insert the second cap and insert the joint back into the vise.

11

Close the jaws of the vise and use a small socket to press one bearing cap into place and install its snap ring, then repeat for the cap on the other side. Repeat Step 5 and this step for the cross' other two caps.

Installing the Driveshaft

12

Slide the driveshaft's front end into the transmission or transfer case. For a front shaft, slide its rear end into the splines of the transfer case output shaft and attach the front end to the differential flange.

13

Install the straps and bolts. Tighten the bolts with a torque wrench to 19 foot-pounds (both shaft types).

14

Push and seat the output shaft boot (for a front shaft) within its groove, insert a small screwdriver in between the shaft and boot to equalize the pressure and crimp a new clamp into place with clamp-crimping pliers.

15

Reinstall the skid plate with its bolts if needed.

16

Lower the truck off the jack stands.