U Joint Replacement Question

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Jun 28, 2012 | 04:01 PM

Roco71

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Melting Slicks

Joined: Jul 2009

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From: Vero Beach FL

U Joint Replacement Question

My car is a 71 with AT. As I have gotten my car up and drivable I have noticed a clunk coming from the drive train when I put my car into reverse. The clunk or banging noise was also present when accelerating and then letting off the gas. I thought that the banging was probably worn snubber cushions so I replaced them. The banging noise is gone while accelerating and letting off the gas but still present when putting the car in reverse. So I am thinking U Joints in the drive shaft. Can I get to the bolts on the rear u joint straps without removing the snubber cushion or anything else?

Thanks,

Jun 28, 2012 | 04:46 PM

MelWff

Race Director

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I believe you can get to them from the side but did you also check the engine and trani mounts?

Jun 28, 2012 | 05:00 PM

Roco71

Thread Starter

Melting Slicks

Joined: Jul 2009

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From: Vero Beach FL

Quote:

Originally Posted by MelWff

I believe you can get to them from the side but did you also check the engine and trani mounts?

Thanks that what I was thinking. I replaced the transmission mount the same weekend I replaced the snubber cushion. I do not see any signs that the motor mounts are bad.

Jun 28, 2012 | 07:28 PM

scottw

Burning Brakes

Joined: Oct 2001

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From: Okinawa Okinawa

Just need an extension and you can get at them. I think I used a six and three inch extension when I took mine off.

Jun 28, 2012 | 08:50 PM

Roco71

Thread Starter

Melting Slicks

Joined: Jul 2009

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From: Vero Beach FL

Thanks guys that's what I thought (hoped) the snubber cushion was not the easiest thing to get out and I was not looking forward to doing it twice.

Jun 29, 2012 | 08:16 AM

JimT

Burning Brakes

Joined: Nov 2006

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From: Orange Park Florida

It will be tight but you can remove the bolts. While you are at it, go ahead and drop the drive shaft (it slides out) and have it balanced. Mine was off a bit so I figured I would replace both U-joints and thus eliminate any problems with the drive train.
Good luck

Jun 30, 2012 | 11:17 AM

TWINRAY

Melting Slicks

Joined: Aug 2005

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From: Working on the car NY

The DS on my '69 came out without problems - I (probably) used an open end wrench and just kept spinning the DS, putting it in Park, loosening/spinning etc. You may have to disconnect the emergency brake cable from the bottom - not sure, mine was already out.