Quick Question on Drive Shaft U-Joints

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Slownrusty
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Location: Houston, TX

Quick Question on Drive Shaft U-Joints

Post by Slownrusty »

Guys - So I have my driveshaft out and looking specifically at the Universal Joints (U-Joints) I noticed they were a bit stiff, moving them directionally around. For S and Gs, I decided to add a few drops of penetrating oil (PB Blaster) and worked it in and immediately there was a dramatic improvement in the feel and movement of the joint. The joints have no play in them.

Question: Do you think the U-joints are Ok or need replacement?

My car is an '86 CSi Manual with just under 100k miles.
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Ralph in Socal Online
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Re: Quick Question on Drive Shaft U-Joints

Post by Ralph in Socal »

They need to be replaced. There is still a finite life left in them but the lubricant you provided will not last very long. Oil will vaporize quickly once back in use. Unfortunately an expensive job to replace the staked-in u-joints. Good luck

Ralph
There is a very fine line between "Hobby" and Mental Illness.

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Slownrusty
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Re: Quick Question on Drive Shaft U-Joints

Post by Slownrusty »

Thanks Ralph...I have a sinking feeling that I am borrowed time.
GripGreg
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Re: Quick Question on Drive Shaft U-Joints

Post by GripGreg »

SLOWNRUSTY;
I've had a hard time getting here at times so, here goes I hope; I trust Ralph and I'll add this: if you remove the whole driveshaft, meaning the front too, you might want to replace the Guibo/rubber donut at the front? I asked here quite a while ago & was told if I remember to point the arrows toward the front, the Guibo will last longer. Also, when installing, maybe use new bolts, maybe not? And, install the bolts by alternating the bolt heads from one side of the Guibo to the other every time. Also, tighten the bolts like our wheels by tightening one across from the other. I felt the need to tell this to my mechanic & he said okay after I told him where I got the info from & thanx!
The job has lasted on my Buster for years. \:D/
Good Luck,,,,Greg
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sansouci
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Re: Quick Question on Drive Shaft U-Joints

Post by sansouci »

I haven't needed it yet, but previous posters mentioned Drive Shaft Specialist in San Antonio TX (www.driveshaftspecialist.com) and Beyer Drivelines in Chandler AZ ([email protected])
This IS NOT a recommendation as I haven't used either but perhaps some other Coupers can chime in.
--Ken
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