Most people are telling me I need new U-joints due to clunking into gear. ('73 F100 2WD 302 C4 2-piece DS) In searching this forum greaseable vs. non-greaseable U-joints are discussed. What I'm wondering is why there are two different kinds. They both require grease so why have to grease at all (in favor of the non-greaseable) or why not grease (in favor of the greaseable)? Sorry if this sounds stupid, But I don't get it. Thanks for you help.

 

Most of the time when a u-joint fails it's because it runs out of grease. So if you have a greasable joint, it will last forever as long as you keep fresh grease in it. It's also very easy to tell when one is bad, as there will be movement at that u-joint.

 

u-joints with grease port like the previous post states advantage is that you can re-grease them without taking them apart as long as you do it as reqular maintenece.

the type without grease port are stronger as they dont have the port as a weak point. on your truck this is probably not a concern, but in race applications it can be.

and with modern greases and manufacturing techniques, the non-regreaseable type will last forever also. just use a quality grease when you out them togather.

if you do go with the regreaseable style, just make sure you install them correctly so you can actually access the grease nipple.

rgds
Mike

 

Been there done that.

What's even better is that the spicer joints that I bought are designed such that the zerk and the metal around it is in the way so the joint can't be pressed out of the double carden driveshaft on my Bronco. So the next time these joints have to be replaced I will probably just buy a new rear shaft from the junkyard.

 

Once again, I salute you all for your wealth of knowledge. Thanks.