U-joints = weak link?

[2001 GTS]

Over the past year and a half I have broken 4 U-joints on the drivers side half shaft. All of them on the inside on the rear end yoke.

Any ideas why this one keeps getting loose and destroying the needle bearings...then making it move in the cap??

Best idea right now is to replace the straps and bolts this time as well as the U-joint.

Also crossed my mind that maybe the yoke is a little off

 

[carguy07]

Problem solved:

http://partsrack.blastmart.com/customer/product.php?productid=1413&cat=171&page=1

or

http://partsrack.blastmart.com/customer/product.php?productid=1414&cat=171&page=1

 

[carguy07]

I think you are supposed to replace the straps every time too.

 

[2001 GTS]

I've looked into the stronger half shafts, but don't mind running on the stock ones b/c i have a few laying around.

Does the unitrax have a different designed U-joint?

 

[dave6666]

Are you using Dana Spicer joints?

Replacing the straps every time is mandatory according to the manual.

If you had something out of whack (like a yoke off center or bent) I would suspect a serious vibration.

 

[2001 GTS]

Thats what I was thinking...but no vibrations whatsoever.

Definitely replacing the straps...hopefully that was the problem

 

[dave6666]

Thats what I was thinking...but no vibrations whatsoever.

Definitely replacing the straps...hopefully that was the problem

I would also check the fit of the cups in the yoke since you've been having trouble (and not replacing straps...). They should darn near need tapping in and prying out. Check the old and the new. If loose you may need a new yoke.

Loctite them screws too on them straps!

 

[2001 GTS]

Last time I checked the yoke there was no play where the u-joint sits.

But if I need a new yoke, the part number is still on it and we buy quite a few spicer yokes through our trucking business....so no biggie there

 

[dave6666]

Oh yeah. One last thing. Check and make sure the axle slides. Never had mine out nor do I know how easy it should slide but it should.

See if you can check run out on it too when it's installed. Both ends and center if you can find a smooth spot. Compare to other side of car maybe.