How to Remove the Universal Joints of an El Camino
- 1). Put the El Camino on jack stands using the jack, positioned high enough that you can fit under the car. Make sure there are stands under the frame and the axle.
- 2). Unbolt the driveline straps from the axle with an open-end wrench. Put a drain pan beneath the other end of the driveline, the end where the driveline enters the transmission. Pull the driveline out of the connection on the axle, then slide it out of the transmission. Take the driveline out to a clean work area.
- 3). Remove the snap rings holding the U-joints to the driveline. Insert a socket into the center of the U-joint that is smaller than the driveline but fits on the U-joint bearing cap.
- 4). Strike the socket with the hammer until the U-joint pushes out through the opposite side of the driveline. Pull off the bearing caps on the U-joint, then maneuver the U-joint out of the driveline.
- 5). Repeat steps 3--4 for the other U-joint on the driveline.
