Should I replace both u-joints?

Some Vehicles Have More Than Two U-Joints

There are typically two u-joints to replace on either end of the drive shaft. Some driveshafts have a double-cardan joint at the front, which contains two u-joints. So there are three U-joints to replace. It's best to replace them all at once.

How much does it cost to replace two u-joints?

The average cost for u-joint replacement is between $240 and $288. Labor costs are estimated between $108 and $137 while parts are priced between $131 and $151. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific vehicle or unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.

Why are two universal joints required?

Universal joints allow drive shafts to move up and down with the suspension while the shaft is moving so power can be transmitted when the drive shaft isn't in a straight line between the transmission and drive wheels. Rear-wheel-drive vehicles have universal joints (or U-joints) at both ends of the drive shaft.

How often should you replace universal joints?

U-joints should last forever – or at least the life of the vehicle.

How long should it take to replace u-joints?

On a typical labor book, a U-joint replacement is one or two labor hours, meaning that a $25 part can cost substantially more once someone else installs it for you and charges around $100/hour.

How to Diagnose and Replace Universal Joints (ULTIMATE Guide)

Can I change U joints by myself?

Replacing these joints is a fairly straightforward job, though it takes some prior experience. To begin, you'll need a universal joint pressing tool. You can also take advantage of the loaner tools program at your local Advance Auto Parts store. Then follow these step-by-step instructions on how to change U joints.

How often should U-joints be greased?

The owners manual says to grease them every 100 hours, so if I'm putting 200-300 hrs a year on it that means the U-joints are only getting greased a couple of times a year if one follows the recommendation.

Do you grease U-joints?

Be sure to grease your u-joints every 5,000 miles (or as recommended by the manufacturer). They'll likely last longer than permanently sealed u-joints.

Can U-joints cause death wobble?

The biggest issue with death wobble is that it can have so many more causes than say, a driveline vibration, which can typically be narrowed down to a bent driveline, improper angle, or worn u-joint.

Why do steering shafts have double U-joints?

A double jointed u-joint helps in applications where routing of the steering shaft(s) exceeds a safe 30-35 degrees. This is often seen with big block engine swaps or when the steering gear is mounted in a non-standard configuration.

Why are two universal joints often used when there is angular misalignment between two shafts?

Angular misalignment between two shafts connected with a flexible coupling introduces an additional driving force that can produce torsional or lateral vibrations. The forces in a typical industrial coupling are similar to those in a universal joint (Figure 18-2).

What happens when u-joint fails?

When a u-joint fails, your vehicle breaks down and stops moving. It sounds simple, but it's actually not. There can be a lot of damage involved. The driveshaft assembly can come loose and even fall off.

How much does a shop charge to replace U-joints?

On average, the cost of replacing a universal joint in the United States is about $260, where parts cost about $140 and labor costs about $120. Costs will differ for different car owners, based on factors such as your location, the type of vehicle you own, the age of your car, and more.

What does a worn universal joint sound like?

Common signs of a faulty u-joint include a squeaking noise, clunking sound when shifting, vibrations in the car, and transmission fluid leaking.

Why does my universal joint keep breaking?

This usually happens because of corrosion, excessive jolting or vibration, or because the bolts were not properly torqued into place. A worn or cracking transmission or differential housing can also cause this.

Is Lucas Red N Tacky good for U-joints?

Lucas red N tacky grease is a smooth, tacky, red lithium complex grease fortified with a high degree of extreme pressure additives that give a TRUE Timken load much higher than other greases of this type. It stays in U-joints and resists wash-out, making it the perfect truck grease.

Can you use WD 40 on U-joints?

Yes it would be bad. WD40 is for squeaky doors and getting labels off. It is not a lubricant that should be used on any part of the drive train. In fact you shouldn't even use it on door hinges, 3-in-1 oil is better for that.

How long do driveshafts last?

While there is no set lifespan of a driveshaft, it typically can last about 75,000 miles. Keep in mind depending on the vehicle, and wear and tear you may get much less or much more.

Can you over grease a ball joint?

One concern about greasing ball joints is not wanting to overfill it and bust the seal between the ball joint and the dust boot, which leaves the joint open to contaminates that can potentially lead to failure.

What is one of the most common causes of universal joint and driveshaft failures?

The three most common causes of failure are: Misalignment of the drive shaft. An out of balance load. Over-stress.

Can a bad u-joint damage transmission?

Damaged Bearings

If they go on long enough, the vibrations from a bad u-joint can damage any of these bearings: The transmission output bearing (if there is no transfer case) The transfer case output bearing. The pinion bearing.

Can you drive with bad u-joints?

How Long Can You Drive With a Bad U-Joint? If you think you might be dealing with a bad u-joint, you should address the problem right away. A u-joint that fails completely can cause the driveshaft to fall out of the undercarriage, potentially causing significant damage to the vehicle and even an accident, maybe.