[C1] U Joint replace?
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes






Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 1,205
Likes: 378
From: Knoxville, TN
2020 C1 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
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?
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.
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.
My recommendation is "If it ain't broke, don't fix it".
Just $.02 worth.
Le Mans Master







Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 5,436
Likes: 1,253
From: Sarver Pa
2021 C1 of the Year Finalist - Modified
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.
Race Director





Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 15,454
Likes: 8,913
From: northern california
C2 of Year Finalist (track prepared) 2019
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.
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.



