I placed the grease along the channel of each groove on the first smaller amount.
Then I placed the larger amount directly below the retaining washer and circlip at the end of the grooves. Not in the boot area.

Is there any chance a PO replaced original balls with what he had on hand - maybe slightly larger?

You’re probably the first to open the half shafts...

I cleaned everything up today; it all looked good.  I'll reassemble tomorrow and give you an update.

Thanks again.

Any chance you can measure the bearing diameter before reassembly?

 

Will do...check back tomorrow.

@ETI4K ball is 11mm and spacer is 10mm

Edited May 1, 20206 yr by wadelester

Perfect.  I'll dig out one of mine tomorrow that I'd already started tearing down and measure for comparison.

I put it back together again today.  It moves now, but I wouldn't say it's smooth.  I'll put it in and see what happens.  I'll flip the other one as well.  Thanks guys.

So much for plans to measure the bearing diameter.  I could not (cannot) break down the half shaft bc the u-joint won't cooperate.  Left it overnight with WD to soak and kept about 10(?) tons of force applied.  This morning - cups still will not move.  Can anyone confirm the flange is forged?  Really looking forward to NOT breaking it.

Yep, retaining clips are off both cups, and the socket is large enough.  I shall press on ?

Get aggressive....

@ETI4K When I did mine, I ended up pressing the joint right through the bottom cup.  I agree with @wheee! ... get aggressive .