While we are replacing the cv joint on the front driveshaft we decided to do the front u joint.

We removed the 2 C clips and put a large socket over one cap and a nut on the other and started tightening the vise. It was really tight so I used a cheater bar.

I think I stripped the guts out of that cheap chinese vise and the caps never moved. I am sure that I had sufficient clearance for the cap to push out but it did not budge. We are soaking it now but I'm wondering if heat is needed too?

 

Got it with a hammer and a small socket on one side and the big one on the other. It took about 50 licks to get moving then it slipped right out

 

You need a C Press, you can't pound them back in.... well I guess you could, but not on my trucks. Turns them in and out like butter.

OTC 7248 (just the press) does U Joints, Ball Joints, and Brake Anchor Pins. The OTC 7249 adds in cups for the Ball Joints, had mine for years.