Universal Joint: Description and Operation

Universal Joints

The U-joints consist of the following:

- A single spider (cross)
- Lubed-for-life design and require no periodic lubrication
- Nylon thrust washers, located at each base of the bearing cup, which control end play, position the needle bearing and improve grease movement
- Grease seals located at the opening of each bearing cup to retain the grease for the bearing lubrication
- Thirty-two needle roller bearings in each bearing cup to allow smooth trunnion transition
- Bearing cups that retain the needle bearings and locate the spider on the centerline of the shaft bore to control shaft runout and balance

U-joints are serviced as assemblies only and the components of U-joint kits should not be interchanged.