U Joints issue

[chomama1]

I know U Joints are not a sexy issue, but could use some advice. This is a FFR, 302, 5 speed.

My U Joints at the drive shaft are apparently throwing a small amount of grease. These are "sealed" U Joints. It is black grease in color and does not appear to be a large amount, but it definitely is throwing some.

Anything I can do about this? What is the end game, drive shaft failure?

Thx.

[LMH]

"Sealed" meaning there are no Zerk fittings on the U-joints?
Shouldn't be leaking if the outer race is fully seated on the joint. Could be an issue later if it continues to leak.
Larry

[Rick Parker]

Chomama1 :

Anything I can do about this? What is the end game, drive shaft failure?

Yes!
Sealed units shouldn't throw any grease. It's possible the seals have been compromised or damaged. If there is any question about their age, replace them with good Spicer brand units while you can do it at an opportune time instead of finding yourself out on the road with one that had gone dry.

The Best!!! Spicer Life Series

http://www.splujoints.com/

[strictlypersonl]

Have you limited wheel travel and adjusted the pinion angle to prevent drive-shaft joint binding under rebound?

[chomama1]

Thanks to all.

Yes, by sealed, I mean no zerks.

Does not "appear" to me to be enough of an angle anywhere to cause binding, but I could be wrong. The drive shaft itself is about a foot long, maybe.

Nothing appears worn or damaged and I do not abuse the drive line. Well, not much anyway. No smoking the tires or anything like that. Actually, the u joints and the driveline look almost new.

There's a suspension guy down the road, I'll have him look at it.

[chomama1]

Thanks to all.

Yes, by sealed, I mean no zerks.

Does not "appear" to me to be enough of an angle anywhere to cause binding, but I could be wrong. The drive shaft itself is about a foot long, maybe.

Nothing appears worn or damaged and I do not abuse the drive line. Well, not much anyway. No smoking the tires or anything like that. Actually, the u joints and the driveline look almost new.

There's a suspension guy down the road, I'll have him look at it.

[BAsque1]

If you do change the U-joint with grease fittings, ensure that you do have a drive shaft protection from damage to the body or dropping the shaft can cause a serious accident. There are several drive shaft shields that can be installed.
Basque1 (Lou)

[chomama1]

Excellent point!

Drive shaft shield is my next purchase.

[LMH]

Just a reminder (you probably already know this but...), when you install U-joints, make sure you install the Zerk fittings so that they are under compression when torque is applied to the driveshaft. I've seen them installed wrong and the U-joint broken at the hole for the Zerk fitting.
Larry