Universal joints or U-joints are couplings that connect two rigid shafts together. They are a part of a vehicle’s drivetrain that people take for granted until they start wearing out or need to be replaced. Once that happens, people usually have lots of questions. We’ll cover the most common questions about U-joints in this article.
U-joints can last for decades or break when the vehicle is still relatively new. Their lifespan is partly determined by the quality of the U-joint, the type of vehicle, and how that vehicle is used and maintained. But even then, it’s hard to predict how long a U-joint will last. That’s why checking your u-joints at every oil change is a good idea.
U-joints are not all the same. A typical rear wheel drive vehicle has 2 or 3 u-joints. Some vehicles with a long wheel base, such as buses, have 3 or more u-joints. There are different types of U-joints for different vehicles and applications, and they come in different sizes:
The most common reasons U-joints seize up or fail include:
U-joints allow the vehicle’s rigid driveshaft to connect to the transmission and drive wheels while rotating freely. They provide a flexible connection at each end of the driveshaft, allowing it to move up and down or at an angle as the vehicle’s wheels move up and down on the suspension. Without U-joints, a vehicle’s suspension would not allow that wheel travel making for a harsh ride and causing the driveshaft to bind going over any uneven surface.
Bad U-joints will likely vibrate noticeably or make audible clicking sounds. They can also get hot if they lose their lubrication. Sometimes u-joints fail from normal wear and tear, especially on vehicles that are often used for heavy towing or off-roading. U-joints can also fail because of misalignment, corrosion, or excessive vibration. If you know your vehicle is subjected to any of these conditions, you’ll want to be on the lookout for these tell-tale noises and symptoms. If you suspect your U-joints are going bad, get them checked out and replace them.
Most rear-wheel drive cars and trucks have two the three U-joints. Some commercial trucks and busses will have three or more U-joints. The exact number of u-joints in your vehicle depends on what type of drive shaft it has. Some drive shafts are jointed, which means additional u-joints.
At GMB, we’ve specialized in high-quality U-joints since 1943. Many industry experts consider us the leading brand for u-joints because:
If you’ve got questions about U-joints or other products we carry, contact us online or call 1-800-421-5019.
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