Front axle u joint replacement

[b3uhbp]

I have an 84 CJ7 with Dana 30 front axle and I’m finally getting around to replacing the front axle u joints but I have two questions. 1st, will the axle shafts just pull out? And 2nd, will I loose gear lube when I pull the shafts? In other words, do I have to remove the diff cover and drain the oil? Thanks

 

[Torxhead]

Well, you have to remove the spindles to do it, but they should pull out through the knuckles, unless the yokes have pulled apart. Gear oil should not come out if the front is lifted up and level. I would suggest you replace the spindle nuts as they are a very tight fit. There has to be a YouTube video on it. If you do much four wheeling, carry enough tools to do the job on the trail.

 

[Lumpy Grits]

Do one side at a time and lift the side you're working on a few inches.
If it was me---I would replace the inner axle seals as you don't want to have a do-over when they start leaking.
Why are you replacing the axle u-joints??
LG

 

[b3uhbp]

Well, you have to remove the spindles to do it, but they should pull out through the knuckles, unless the yokes have pulled apart. Gear oil should not come out if the front is lifted up and level. I would suggest you replace the spindle nuts as they are a very tight fit. There has to be a YouTube video on it. If you do much four wheeling, carry enough tools to do the job on the trail.

Thanks torx. That’s what I thought. I’m finally replacing the ball joints due to high steering effort. Takes 35 ft lbs to move the knuckles. Should be under 25. I’m hoping once done my wheels will return to center. Replacing the axle u joints since I’m in there.

 

[b3uhbp]

Do one side at a time and lift the side you're working on a few inches.
If it was me---I would replace the inner axle seals as you don't want to have a do-over when they start leaking.
Why are you replacing the axle u-joints??
LG

I’ll take your advice on doing one side at a time. Shouldn’t be too tough.