98 Accord driveshafts

Well it's time to replace my driveshafts. Any tips, tricks, or suggestions.
Do I need to use the Honda ball joint tool or will a generic one do?

 

I use the one from Autozone.

 

I used a generic claw type puller on a Civic and was not happy with the
results - it's difficult to get the tool to stay straight on the tabs of
the control arm (do they still have those tabs on the arm since they
changed the recommended tool?) and the stud tends to want to bend. I ended
up having to show it a bit of heat with a propane torch, protecting the
rubber boot with a bit of sheet metal, before it would let go. I'd say the
recommended jaw type(?) puller is preferable but I haven't seen/found an
aftermarket equivalent yet.... anybody??

Tips:

1) Muffle your ears to separate ball joint or they'll be ringing for hours
afterwards.

2) Remember to put a nut, even the castle nut reversed, on the end of the
stud to avoid mushrooming and to catch the lower arm when it lets go.

3) While the lower arm is off, is a good time to force some fresh grease
into the lower ball joint with a needle adapter on your grease gun.

4) It's probably a good idea to replace the differential side seal as well
- it doesn't really need a special tool IME. Just make note of the old
seal's depth in its recess before removing - once the new seal is lined up
true and tapped in to get it started you can push with your fingers.

Rgds, George Macdonald

"Just because they're paranoid doesn't mean you're not psychotic" - Who, me??

 

Why are you replacing them? Symptoms?

 

I used a pair of locking pliers with big jaws around the claws. They won't spread
after that.

 

It wasn't "spread" that was the problem - more that as the pressure
increased, the puller started to cock to the side along the axis of the
control arm and put a bending force on the stud.

Rgds, George Macdonald

"Just because they're paranoid doesn't mean you're not psychotic" - Who, me??

 

I've got a split outer boot and it's starting to click. It's easier to
change out the shaft than replace the joint.