RonsRed88

A squeak I have coming from my left rear tire has finally driven me nuts. Last weekend I replaced the brake pads thinking that would fix the problem, but it obviously didn't. Today I put the entire back end on jackstands, put the car in neutral, and rotated the wheel by hand with my head jammed under the car. I think I've finally narrowed it down to the U joint that goes into the back of the wheel. (sorry I don't know any technical terms, I just tend to wing it) Anyway, can U joints squeak? If so, is there something safe for me to spray in there to get it to stop. Or, do I need to replace the bad boy?

All info is greatly appreciated,
Ron

M2001

If a U-joint is squeaking, replace it. I wouldn't use any other brand other than Spicer. Stay away from after market brands when it comes to replacing the U-joints. You should probably replace both joints whether the problem is on the drive or half shaft.

boxerdog

Yes indeed, they can squeek. Usually because they are dry, no grease. A bearing will squeek as you turn the wheel. Most times a U-joint will squeek, squeek, squeek as you turn the wheel. hope that made sense.

LPDesRoche

You may as well do both sides and the driveshaft U joints while you are there. That way you are covered. Not hard to do....just a bit time consuming.

Ramrod92

The halfshaft joints take a lot more abuse than the drive shaft joints. The Spicer part number for the halfshaft joints is 5-447X. I still don't have the drive shaft numbers yet, but I'll be rounding them up this week. :cheers:

Sharky Guam

Yes, replace the ujoints and do it two at a time. That is , both of them on the same half shaft. The right rear half shaft takes the most stress and usually goes first.If you have problems removing the ujoint from the shaft, take it to a shop that has a press. They can do it easily without damaging the yokes. And if you do it yourself at home, make sure to releive the stress and lock the retaining rings by tapping inward on the center of the ujoint on both sides.

:cheers:

RonsRed88

Thanks everybody, It looks like I know what my next project is! Since I'm a novice I'll have to plan it over a 3 day weekend or take a few days off from work.

Ron