U-joints

[J DeMaio]

Well, truck makes a clunk when starting off and also squeals in granny or second gear going under 10 m. p. h. Seems the two U-joints are loose, the front one just a bit but teh back one thats hooked to the rear end seems quite loose. Job seems relatively straight forward. I was wondering if there was anything to watch out for. Are any brands good? Do I get the ones with zerk fittings or sealed ones. Seems I read once where the sealed ones were stronger, will they last any longer? Thanks!

 

[Scot]

I am not familiar with aftermarket sealed joints. I use Dana/Spicer joints if possible. Some parts houses will guarantee theirs but you still have to change the silly things.

 

[paccool]

I agree with Scot on the Dana-Spicer joints. I have used some of the "off" brands in the past with limited success. I also like the ones with a zerk.



Stan

 

[J DeMaio]

Well, looks like all I need to do is get some Spicer u-joints, take the driveshaft out and get to work. Thanks for the input.

 

[NuttyMopar]

Once you get the driveshaft out. I usually take all the clips off and then with a socket the same size as the u-joint cup, Tap it onto the cap until you can get the other side's cap off, then turn it over and tap it back for the other cap. When putting it back together, just make sure that you tap it all around so the u-joint has easy movement before putting it back on the truck. Good luck, pretty easy really.

 

[J DeMaio]

Well, went to Autozone last night and bought 2 u-joints, might as well do both while I have driveshaft out. They were $15 each and looked good, all little parts in the box. That old u-joint has to be worn out, the steering wheel shakes and you can feel vibrations. I'm not sure if these are the originals or not, is there any way to tell? 175,000 miles on the originals sounds like a long life. Thanks for the replies!