Thanks to the great advise I got from The Burning Rom....I know my "clicking noise" from the front end is my
Ujoints........both of em.....Bearings and seals seem fine (no play, no leaks, no noise)

The question now is, what's involved in doing this? I don't see any external clips on the (ujoint) bearing caps? Do the axles need to be removed, or can this be done in place with the rotors pulled etc. Also, what's the going rate for replacement Ujoints........and rough time per side on this?
Thanks!

 

All the info you need is in that HOW TO that I linked you to (this one: http://dieselpowerman.tripod.com/Fro...xle%20Tech.htm )

Follow the steps, but leave out the ones involving replacing the seals and removing the differential. You will have to pull the cover and drain it though, since you will leak fluid when you remove the axle shafts. (probably a good idea to change it anyway if it hasn't been lately) It can't be done in place..there's just no room to get at the u-joint. Removing the hub/bearing assembly is optional, but I recommend it. The chance of damaging the axle seals is FAR less if you're only trying to slide out the axle shaft, and not the shaft with a heavy bearing assembly attached to it.

Info on replacing the actual u-joints (once you have the shaft out) is at the bottom.

As far as cost, I think NAPA has them for $50 and under...at least in their online catalog. Make sure you get the ones for the 4,500lb front axle.

 

Okay thanks.........I only scanned through it and it seemed to be focused on bearings and seals mostly.........so I figured I would see what the problem is first.

Any idea how long this takes per side..............rough estimate. I've replaced the same on my Chevy several times.......doesn't look all that different.......or is it?