Axle u-joint c-clip help

UKTJ · Sep 3, 2024

I am looking to change the U Joints on some Dana 30 axle shafts. I suspect it is a very long time since the U Joints were changed. Having cleaned up the area I think I have identified the end of the C-Clip (see picture below), but it would be helpful if somebody can confirm or otherwise that what I have drawn an arrow to is the end of the C-Clip.

If that is the C-Clip I am really sruggling to move it . I watch Youtube and people merrily spring them out with no issue, but I am having no such luck. As can be seen in the picture, where I have been trying to get the clip out the end is starting to get damaged giving even less surface to apply pressure to. Are the best options penetrating oil and / or trying to heat the clip up? Or on this occassion is there a different approach I should be taking?

Thanks in advance.

Tronner · Sep 3, 2024

That is the clip you are looking for, as you suggested, penetrating oil and heat will both help. I found using a vice to hold to DS and use a pick or flat head screwdriver to try and pry the clip out.

mrblaine · Sep 3, 2024

UKTJ said:
I am looking to change the U Joints on some Dana 30 axle shafts. I suspect it is a very long time since the U Joints were changed. Having cleaned up the area I think I have identified the end of the C-Clip (see picture below), but it would be helpful if somebody can confirm or otherwise that what I have drawn an arrow to is the end of the C-Clip.

View attachment 555525

If that is the C-Clip I am really sruggling to move it . I watch Youtube and people merrily spring them out with no issue, but I am having no such luck. As can be seen in the picture, where I have been trying to get the clip out the end is starting to get damaged giving even less surface to apply pressure to. Are the best options penetrating oil and / or trying to heat the clip up? Or on this occassion is there a different approach I should be taking?

Thanks in advance.

C-clips should be set back against the inside of the yoke when you done installing them. To unset them, simply set the other side on a socket large enough to clear the cap and then smack the cap that is up to drive it inward ever so slightly and release the pressure on the clip. Once that clip is out, flip it over and do the same to the other side.

UKTJ · Sep 3, 2024

mrblaine said:
C-clips should be set back against the inside of the yoke when you done installing them. To unset them, simply set the other side on a socket large enough to clear the cap and then smack the cap that is up to drive it inward ever so slightly and release the pressure on the clip. Once that clip is out, flip it over and do the same to the other side.

Thanks, will give that a go tomorrow.

tnjeepguy · Sep 3, 2024

Lots of good videos of changing u joints on You tube.

Sorry did not see part two of your post. Keep at it.

UKTJ · Sep 4, 2024

tnjeepguy said:
Lots of good videos of changing u joints on You tube.

There are. But, as I said in my initial question, everyone I have seen shows them fairly easily popping the c-clip out. Almost like they removed it, reinstalled it and then filmed a second removal. Or am I too cunical

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Axle u-joint c-clip help

UKTJ

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Tronner

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mrblaine

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UKTJ

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tnjeepguy

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