Author Topic: Pinion Yoke Replacement  (Read 999 times)

Offline Orange Cuda

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Pinion Yoke Replacement
« on: August 16, 2014 - 01:39:36 AM »
I broke the rear yoke and u-joint on my '72 'Cuda (360/380 HP crate motor, 727 tranny, 2.76 gear). Replacement instructions and advice would be greatly appreciated. I have average mechanical skills and tools. If advanced skills or tools are needed, I guess I will have a shop do it, but I would rather not.  Thanks in advance!
« Last Edit: August 16, 2014 - 01:42:05 AM by Orange Cuda »




Offline Rob C

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Re: Pinion Yoke Replacement
« Reply #1 on: August 16, 2014 - 06:44:38 AM »
This could be an easy job if the part isn't frozen on there real good.

Remove the strap or U bolt holding the U joint in and slide the driveshaft out and out of the way.
The yoke is held on by a nut, remove it.
The yoke can be taken off with a hammer hitting the back side foward. Bit the left, then right back and forth until it slides out and off. A large pry at maybe of service on one side or to strike the other broken side if there is not enough left for a hammer.

This job can be though for a backyard mechanic to do since ground clearance can be an issue.
When you reinstall it, use an air gun for ease of installation.
This is the basic way of doing the job. Pay attention and take notes.
'73 Cuda, 360, 4psd & 4.10's
'79 Dodge Magnum, 360, 727, 9-1/4 W/3.55's

Offline Orange Cuda

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Re: Pinion Yoke Replacement
« Reply #2 on: August 16, 2014 - 09:29:37 AM »
Do I need to drain the differential fluid first?  Is it critical to torque the nut to a certain spec. upon installation (would that affect the gears in the diff.)? I do not have an air gun. Is it recommended to get a yoke and u-joint at a bone yard or should I buy new?
« Last Edit: August 16, 2014 - 09:31:44 AM by Orange Cuda »

Offline Chryco Psycho

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Re: Pinion Yoke Replacement
« Reply #3 on: August 16, 2014 - 10:24:57 AM »
WHat carrier are you using ?
 741 or 742 is not a big deal as it uses shims so the nut needs to be retorqued to the correct spec , 489 is as it uses a crush sleeve which "should" be replaced , you can mark the nut & pinion & retorque so the marking line up again & often get away without a new crush sleeve installed , If you are replacing the crush sleeve I recommend using a spacer & shims , the typical torque is around 250 ft lbs though

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Offline Orange Cuda

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Re: Pinion Yoke Replacement
« Reply #4 on: August 16, 2014 - 04:59:48 PM »
Ok guys, thanks for the info. I can only jack up the car about a half foot and I was unable to break free the 1-1/4" nut without an air wrench at my disposal. At least I got an education and was able to talk intelligently with my mechanic about it.  The car had the smaller u-joints. He is going to upgrade me with the larger ones (and I believe a stouter yoke).