u joint puzzle

[bill v e]

this is my first time removing and replacing ujoint on my own.  u joint dropped out ok w a little bit of careful twisting and turning.  now that i am putting it back in, it looks like a puzzle that must have a trick to it.  i'm trying to get the back end (swingarm end) worked in first and have not been able to work it in there.  doesn't seem like it can be done, but i know it can.  any help would be appreciated.  had to replace pinion gear cup and swingarm shaft, but pulled u joint before i discovered the problem - now i can only benefit by the experience, but right now i just do not see how to get that u joint back in. tia.

[Chrisj CMA]

Did you unbolt the rear brake master cylinder and the power cable stay so all that junk moves out of the way....and it helps to remove the side cover (mind the tabs)

[bill v e]

yes, except for the side cover.  i'll remove that and keep trying.

[bill v e]

well, this is kind of embarrassing but . . . . the simple 'trick' is :  needs to be dropped in from above - i was trying to work it in from below - oops -  sorry for the bother - thanks though - by pulling the side cover it gave me the opened up space perspective causing me to try dropping it in that way.  just didn't remember that it came out that way.  now i know. on to the boot replacement.

[Joe Hummer]

well, this is kind of embarrassing but . . . . the simple 'trick' is :  needs to be dropped in from above - i was trying to work it in from below - oops -  sorry for the bother - thanks though - by pulling the side cover it gave me the opened up space perspective causing me to try dropping it in that way.  just didn't remember that it came out that way.  now i know. on to the boot replacement.

a trick on the boot cover...apply a little WD40 or grease to the lips of the boot.  You will put the front on first, then work at the back.  it is a BITCH!!!  to say the least...but keep working at it and you can get it on with your hands. 

Joe

[Ricky-D]

You must necessarily install the u-joint onto the output shaft on the motor first.

The spring installed on the drive shaft inhibits trying to do it any other way.

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