Failing U joint?

Finally (I hope) narrowed down cause of vibration. Problem is, it's something I did, in my driveway, with lack of tools, ie: Who needs a press when you got a bfh?

It ain't broke, but it's slowly slipping out. I changed this 30k ago.

Why?

If I beat it back in place will it be ok?

Or should I get a new joint and do it the right way via press?

 

Never use a hammer. The best way is a proper press. I've used the 'poor mans press' by using a nut or spacer that fits inside the circle, and slowly pressing it in with my vise.

 

U-joint moved because the clip on the other side came out, I would beat it back in place and make sure the clips are seated in their grooves, grease it good and see what happens.
At this point what do you have to lose by trying??

P.S. I have changed a lot of u-joints with a hammer and two sockets with no problems, you just have to make sure you don't mess up the needle bearings when you do it.