AGGHH external snap rings

[MTBLAZER89]

I am installing new U-joints in my rear driveshaft. Popped the old joint out no problem. Now installing the new one I installed it and put in one snap ring. Flipped it over to put in the other one and there is not enough room. If the snap ring was half the thickness it would fit thats how close it is. I un did the other side and tried it the opposite way..no joy. Its like less than 1/64 too tight.

The old one came out easy. Snap rings popped right out and used a C-clamp to push the old joint out..easy! Why won't the new one fit?

Both 1350 joints.

Any tips tricks?

 

[RaisedK5]

Take it apart and make sure a needle didn't fall down out of place and is keeping the cap from seating all the way.

 

[Thunder]

X2 on above post. Usually the problem when that happens

 

[4X4HIGH]

Like was already said make sure a needle hasn't fell. If no needles fell then get the joint back in place and one clip in then with a punch tap on the inner side of the yoke opposite of the side with the clip to help get the width back so the other clip will go in. Basically what happens is sometimes the yoke gets tweaked slightly when removing the old joints. Once you get both clips in then give the yoke a good smack on each side to relieve tension on the joint so that it moves smoothly.

 

[MTBLAZER89]

That was the problem. All fixed now and nice smooth movement.