How to Replace a U-Joint in an F-150

The U-joints, or universal joints, on your Ford F-150 truck are cross-shaped couplings that allow for the flexible movement of your vehicle's drive shafts. Replacing the U-joints is an involved procedure, but it is also fairly straightforward. The U-joints are located underneath the truck and you will need several tools to replace them; you should allow well over an hour to replace the U-joints on your F-150.

Instructions

1

Raise the F-150 with a jack and support the front end of the truck with jackstands.

2

Place the F-150's transmission in the "Neutral" position. Make sure the parking brake is not engaged. Place wooden blocks at the front wheels for safety purposes.

3

Remove the front drive shaft nuts and remove the drive shaft cover. Use a socket wrench to remove the nuts.

4

Remove the four bolts attaching the drive shaft to the axle pinion flange. Lower the drive shaft from the truck.

5

Remove the snap rings from the U-joint with a pair of pliers.

6

Use a rubber hammer to push out the cap from the yoke on the joint.

7

Remove the U-joint from the vehicle. Place a replacement U-joint onto the drive shaft.

8

Reinstall the bearing caps to the yoke with a rubber hammer.

9

Reinstall the snap rings with pliers and reinstall the drive shaft and its bolts.

10

Reattach the drive shaft cover and its nuts. Remove the wooden blocks and jackstands. Lower the truck and remove the jack.