Universal Joints - Part 2: Comparing Joints

Weber State University (WSU) - Automotive Technology Department - Transmission Lab. This is the second in a series of videos on universal joints, constant velocity joints, and driveshafts. In this episode, we compare original equipment (Spicer) universal joints with aftermarket replacement universal joints.

Timeline:
0:00​ Start
0:10​ Introduction
1:30​ Eight universal joint brands tested
3:47​ Snap-ring thickness comparison
8:05​ Snap-rings of various thickness are available for purchase
8:38​ Selective thickness snap-rings for steel yokes
10:04​ Selective coated thickness snap-rings for aluminum yokes
10:48​ Zinc Phosphate coated universal joint bearing caps for aluminum yokes
11:31​ Selective thickness snap-rings for universal joints with grease Zerk fittings
12:28​ Bearing cap installation precautions
14:44​ Bearing cap versus universal joint trunnion placement
15:20​ Which is better, lubricated for life or greaseable universal joints?
16:06​ Spicer brand versus aftermarket universal joints
19:57​ How long does a factory original universal joint last?
20:40​ Cross-width variation measurements and issues
21:50​ Weights of universal joints and moments of inertia
26:53​ Inexpensive versus expensive universal joint bearing surfaces
28:30​ Summary

This video series helps partially cover the following NATEF Master Tasks:
3.D.1. Diagnose constant-velocity (CV) joint noise and vibration concerns; determine necessary action.
3.D.2. Diagnose universal joint noise and vibration concerns; perform necessary action.
3.D.4. Inspect, service, and replace shafts, yokes, boots, and universal/CV joints.
3.D.5. Check shaft balance and phasing; measure shaft runout; measure and adjust driveline angles.
3.E.4. Measure drive axle flange runout and shaft end play; determine necessary action.

Questions for teachers:
1. Are all universal joint snap-rings the same thickness?
2. Why might someone want selective snap rings?
3. Are all universal joint snap-rings made of the same material?
4. Why might someone want coated snap rings?
5. What material is used to coat snap rings and universal bearing cups to be used in an aluminum driveshaft?
6. Why does it matter where each bearing cap is placed on the universal joint cross?
7. Which is better, lubricated for life, or greaseable universal joints?
8. Why did you give the answer you did in the previous question?
9. What did I mean by the term Cross-width variation?
10. Why are Spicer universal joints the ones with which to compare all others?

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http://www.weber.edu/automotive

This video was created and edited by Professor John D. Kelly at WSU. For a full biography, see http://www.weber.edu/automotive/J_Kel...