U-joints allignment?

[carbold]

I have to replace the pivot bearings as the inner races have deep indents. I understand that the two U-joints have to be perfectly aligned (0 degrees). Any idea on how to do it accurately? Also is it easy to replace the bearings without a puller (e.g. with a socket+hammer) ?

 

[Arbreacames]

If you haven't seen it before, this should help.
Ciao,
Carlos

Edited: I just read you on quellidellelica and I now see that you already had this information. All I can add is that you should be able to align the lower U-joint by looking deeply inside the housing for the upper joint. It is not easy, but it is possible to see it by searching all around the shaft.

 

[carbold]

Thanks...Not sure I understood point 2:
"The splines only meet one way and the U-joint should be turned 180 degrees if they don’t match up. When matched, mark a convenient spot on both pieces with a scratch or indent. Remove the pinion shaft and grease both ends and both sockets."
Does it mean there are only two possible fits or do the splines engage at any angle??? I suppose the second, otherwise there would be no need to bother marking...

 

[Arbreacames]

It just says that when you are trying to align the lower U-joint to the upper one, the lower joint may not want to slide in at the precise position (i.e., you're off by 1/2 spline). If so, just turn the U-joint by 180 degrees and it will fit right in.
Carlos

 

[andy malton]

Before you slide the rear u joint off the shaft get a small long thin paint brush,like kids use for colouring,mark the shaft and u joint with white paint jobs a good'n done this loads of times saves a lot bovva when trying to line up after.

 

[carbold]

Thanks guys, everything clear
I'm having a day off tomorrow and hopefully will get it done
Ciao

 

[carbold]

Job done!

Hi folks
I have replaced the bearings, everything went OK. I aligned the UJs using a flash light, no need to undo the shock! I could see the other UJ just enough to align. The 2 UJs don't align perfectly, there's a difference of maybe 2 degrees apparently this is to make sure they are perfectly aligned when the shaft is loaded and slightly twisted.

like this:

PS £30 for the bearings