Ball and U joint press

[mikeswillys]

So I have a 2014 wrangler that will randomly give me a knock when I’m making a sharp turn. I’m guessing the joints in the axle are starting to go bad at 97k. So I am looking to replace all the u joints on the axles and DS along with ball joints. I will probably replace the wheel bearings while I’m in there. I am looking for a decent press that will do both jobs. Also I am looking for any input on what brands to go with or stay away from. Right now everything in my suspension is stock except for new shocks.


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[TerryMason]

I've never used a press for the driveshafts or axles, since you can take them off the Jeep and work on a bench, I usually use two sockets (a big one to receive the cup, and a smaller one to pound it out). There are some photos here:
Jeep front driveshaft (CV / dual cardan) rebuild

As to the ball joints, I go to Advance Auto Parts and borrow their tools. They have a loaner program where you pay the price of the tool, then get a full refund when you bring it back. It's not hard to remove them, but I usually have to spend a while figuring out which cups and parts to use to get everything out and in again.

I generally use Spicer for ujoints - they are considered good.
For wheel bearnings, I think Timkin is probably the best.

 

[JPNinPA]

So I have a 2014 wrangler that will randomly give me a knock when I’m making a sharp turn. I’m guessing the joints in the axle are starting to go bad at 97k. So I am looking to replace all the u joints on the axles and DS along with ball joints. I will probably replace the wheel bearings while I’m in there. I am looking for a decent press that will do both jobs. Also I am looking for any input on what brands to go with or stay away from. Right now everything in my suspension is stock except for new shocks.


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Check your sway bar end links. They will give a weird knock.
Personally I wouldnt fix what is not broken.

You could do Various checks for ball joints and for u-joints.

Agree with manufacturers mentioned above.timken and spicer.

Never look down on anyone unless you are helping them up - Jesse Jackson

 

[mikeswillys]

If I was just using this as a dd I would probably wait on things to break. I am trying to hit more trails and since this thing is 8 years old and has been driven across country twice and wheeled so much I want to reduce the risk of breaks on the trails. I’ve had issues with my sway bar making sounds before so that may be the culprit. I will check that out tomorrow. Thank you.


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