Preparing a New U Joint Saddle

Video Transcript

"In this clip we're going to talk about the proper service procedure for removing and replacing a rear axle u-joint on a Ford Explorer. In this step, we're going to talk about the proper service procedure for cleaning out the surface where our snap ring goes and seating the u-joint cups into the saddle. What I'm going to do is take an angle pick, just like this and run it around inside the groove that the snap ring goes in, just to remove any contaminants. You can see I've got a nice big glob right there. See that stuff coming out? Run it right along. Go ahead and do the same thing to the other side. The extra second here will save you big time when you go to re-seat your snap rings. Once you have them cleaned out, take your u-joint, remove all four caps, set them aside. Slip your u-joint into the saddle, making sure not to get too much dirt or contamination on it."