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[C1] U Joint replace?

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Old Nov 13, 2022 | 07:50 PM
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Default U Joint replace?

My '60's U Joints do not have grease fittings. I have no idea how old they are but I've had the car for 9 years. They are NOT making noise but would it be
smart to replace them preemptively?
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Old Nov 13, 2022 | 07:56 PM
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Originally Posted by Captain Bud
My '60's U Joints do not have grease fittings. I have no idea how old they are but I've had the car for 9 years. They are NOT making noise but would it be
smart to replace them preemptively?
If you do, use Spicer LIFETIME joints - they will be solid, & most of them are made in the USA. Sold is the strongest.
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Old Nov 13, 2022 | 09:03 PM
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If they are not making noise, you might still want to check them. Rock the shaft and watch / feel for play. I use a screw driver to try to force the joint either way to determine play.
My recommendation is "If it ain't broke, don't fix it".
Just $.02 worth.
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Old Nov 13, 2022 | 09:11 PM
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It's a simple matter to remove the u bolts and lower the shaft , pop the caps off and check em. If they look good you can stuff some grease in the caps and reassemble. That will give you a good idea what the front one will look like.
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Old Nov 13, 2022 | 10:55 PM
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Look around the caps for orange-red dust. If you don't see any, your u-joints likely are NOT running dry and likely do NOT warrant replacing.

FWIW, my Five-Seven Shaker, which I've had for 56 years, still retains its original u-joints. I don't plan to replace them until/unless it's necessary. I don't believe in making work for myself.
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