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

- Bearing cups that retain the needle bearings and locate the spider on the centerline of the shaft bore to control shaft runout and balance

The U-joints are staked in place and are not serviced individually. If worn or damaged, install a new driveshaft assembly.

The U-joints in this driveshaft assembly allow the driveshaft tubes to rotate smoothly through the varying angles of the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) , the center support bearings and the Rear Drive Unit (RDU). The angles that cause the U-joints to accelerate and decelerate may cause vibration in the driveshaft assembly if the angles are either too great or too small. Refer to Differential Assembly &/or Axle Shaft Assembly &/or Drive/Propeller Shafts, Bearings and Joints.