Universal Joint

A universal joint, or a U-joint, is a flexiblecoupling between two shafts that permits transmission of power from one shaft toanother at an angle to it. The universal joint isflexible in a sense that it will permit power to betransmitted while the angle of the other shaft iscontinually varied. The universal joints are placed at a 90-degree angle to each other and one counteracts the action of the other while in motion.

 

(U-joint picture 1)

 

The cross and roller design is the most common type of drive shaft U-joint. It consists of four bearing caps, four needle roller bearings, a cross or journal, grease seals, and snap rings The bearing caps are held stationary in the drive shaft yokes. Roller bearings fit between the caps and the cross to reduce friction. The cross is free to rotate inside the caps and yokes. Snap rings are fitted to secure the cap into the Yoke, most car makers these days will crimp in the yoke to secure the U Joint in place making replacement of the joint not possible to a repair shop or even a machine shop.

These type of stacked in universal joint driveshaft is what we specialize in.most of our driveline are converted to a replaceable joints and some as BMW and Mercedes are not, due to Zero clearance needed for vibration free product.

Double-Cardan Universal Joint

The double-cardan universal joint uses two cross and roller joints in tandem to form a single joint.

 

(U-joint picture 2)

 

As the shafts rotate, the action of the centering balland yoke acts to maintain an equally divided drive angle between the connected shafts, resulting in a constant drive velocity.

Universal Joint Securing Methods

• Replaceable U-joints will have a removable clip on each cap.

  (U-joint picture 3)

• Stacked U-joints will be crimped in during assembly and are not replaceable by regular means, special machinery and modifications will be needed to do the job, and these our specialty.

  (U-joint picture 4)

We've got you covered for all your Driveline needs!