U-joints

[DPelletier]

I hear ya, Jeremiah,



If a guy removed the shaft, took out the u-joints and re-greased the caps, the stockers would probably last a long time. A heck of a lot of work, I know. I plan on just leaving it alone until I have a problem.



Dave

 

[realsquash]

There's nothing inherently wrong with the lubrication of a sealed u-joint. That said I think the factory mopar joints have some kinda of issue. Mine were shot at 20k miles on my rear driveshaft. I haven't found a sealed/non-greaseable 1480 joint yet, so the Mopar joint is unique in that way. I would have preferred a non-greaseable joint. They tend to have much better seals and hold their grease much better than a greasable one.



A far as a joint taking 500lb-ft of torque, a greasable 1350 joint does that job quite well and has for year and years so I don't think they used non-greasable joints for strength. I think it's a cost issue.



Andy

 

[DPelletier]

Andy,

The only thing to keep in mind IMO is that the flywheel torque ratings have risen every few years from 400 to 600 ft lbs and horsepower from 160hp to 325hp. I still think the reason for the change is some engineer's comfort level for failure rather than penny pinching, but I guess only DC knows for sure. If they paid more than 5 cents for a grease nipple, I'd be surprised.





Dave