randy olson

I got my 1990 F150 inspected yesterday, and it passed. However, the mechanic said I should replace the rear u-joint on the driveshaft. This is a 2-wheel drive long bed truck. Has anyone done this job, and are there any helpful suggestions?
Thanks in advance,
Randy
Ithaca, NY
1990 Ford F150, long bed, regular cab, 2-wheel drive, 5.0 liter, 5 speed

PS I picked up a load of gravel yesterday...1,600 pounds...so the truck still hauls. The guy loading it asked if I wanted to sell it. Happens all the time around here, because there's no rust on this southern truck that lives in the rust belt.

sam29078

They are a easy fix if you know what your doing. Some times the they can be a pain getting together with the needle bearings they fall out. I would replace both u joints on driveshaft.

randy olson

Yes, I have replaced a U-joint before on my MGB, so I know the basics.
But, the U-joint at the rear of the drive shaft isn't flanged to bolt to the rear differential. It looks like it might be U-bolted. If so, I guess you just unbolt those. Sound reasonable? I would then replace the U-bolts, along with the U-joint.
Probably when I get to this job it will be obvious how it all comes apart. I need to clear out a bay in the garage and get under the truck. Heading there now.
Thanks for the input.
Randy

sam29078

Yep it sound like you got it handled. You should be fine.

wvtradbow

Just did the rear on my 89 but the bed was off at the time,not that big of deal,I always use Youtube before I do anything theres a couple things that can save you some time..I only replaced a couple but Youtube helped a lot..

randy olson

I got the u-joint installed, but not without some hassle. I had to use penetrating fluid, then heat, to get the old one out. Then, the new one was a hair too big to fit in the yoke. I couldn't get the circlip in on one side. So, I slightly beveled the circlip, allowing it to get into the groove.
Thanks for the ideas. I used Youtube, too. Always helps.
Randy