I just replaced my slightly worn u joints on my 2001 trans am with new moog ones. I'm paranoid I installed them with a fallen needle bearing or two. Getting them seated enough to get both snap rings in place was nothing less than a nightmare. Once I did they were tight. A big hit with a rubber mallet got it loosened up and they spin nice and smooth. Is this a normal thing to occur? Should I worry if they're moving smoothly and effortlessly?

 

Yes, that sounds normal. I needed to tap mine to get them to free up, but the only way to know if you have all your bearings (before you have a problem) is to take the caps off. When I last did mine, I had to double-check a few before I bolted them all up.

 

In 2011 did a torque convertor and tranny replacement at a friends house (has a lift). After everything was up and running, found a joint needle bearing during cleanup. Put it in the cup holder. 2012 did a complete rear replacement, 4.56s' out 3.23s' back in, found the cap that was missing a needle bearing and put it in. So running for a year without one needle bearing was OK.

 

You'll never get them lined up and secured if a needle fell over. Sounds like you've got em set up just right.