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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.
A bad u-joint can cause a clunking sound or jerkiness while driving, particularly when letting off of and pressing the accelerator. A bad u-joint can also cause vibration at certain speeds, emanating from the center or rear of the vehicle. … Then, shift into drive.
The average price for the u joint replacement cost ranges between $190 and $260 for the replacement, while the labor on this job runs between $170 and $210 on aveage, with the parts ranging between $20 and $50. Keep in mind, the average u joint replacement cost will vary depending on the type of vehicle you have.
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.
Universal joints, being a heavy-duty component in off-road and rear wheel drive vehicles, can undergo many issues that lead to its failure. These can severely affect the movement of the vehicle and can cause great losses in the rotational power and torque transmitted from the engine to the wheels.
A common symptom of a failing driveshaft is an intense shaking coming from underneath the vehicle. Worn out u-joints or bushings can cause the driveshaft to vibrate. … Please note that tire problems can also cause vibration problems, but it’s easy to tell them apart.
Rear-wheel-drive vehicles have universal joints (or U-joints) at both ends of the drive shaft. … Front-drive vehicles also use two joints, called constant velocity (or CV) joints, but they are a different kind that also compensate for steering changes.
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.
A broken driveshaft can prevent wheels from turning properly, giving you trouble when trying to make turns. This issue limits your overall control of the car. You need any issues that prevent you from driving the car correctly addressed right away for safe driving and continued use of the vehicle.
Squeaking noise when starting to move (forward or reverse)
The bearing becomes dry, metal-to-metal contact is made, and the u-joint bearings will squeak as the drive shaft rotates.
For U-joints with outside snap rings, you will need to measure from the edge of one u-joint cap straight across to the edge of the other u-joint cap. With these dimensions, it will be easy to identify what series of U-joint that you have. Another way to identify a u-joint is by properly measuring the pinion yoke.
This is basically a joint with two u-joints. U-joint maintenance isn’t too much of a factor today for the occasional off-road enthusiast. Most over-the-counter u-joints are sealed and nongreaseable and require little maintenance.
When the pieces are not able to turn and move freely, additional strain gets put on them. So much so that the universal joints can break while the vehicle is in motion. In turn, the driveshaft can become disconnected and hit the ground. The issue can be dangerous, as the car won’t be able to drive forward or backward.
Drive shafts and universal joints are present on most rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive vehicles.
A U-joint (the “U” stands for “universal”), sometimes called a Cardan joint after the man who invented it, is a type of flexible coupling typically used on both ends of the drive shafts in rear-wheel and four-wheel drive vehicles. … A constant velocity (CV) joint does essentially the same thing as a U-joint, only better.
$149. The only main tool really needed is the Ball Joint press, which you can rent at any local automotive store or buy one from Harbor Freight for $30. As far as the tool, just rent it from a parts store.
Usually, the Drive Shaft Repair costs will differ based on what caused the issue and how fast it can be repaired. If you just have to replace it, that would be anywhere from $500 to $1000. However, you can also expect the cost of the parts to be around half that number and the labor costs around $200.
INTENSE VIBRATIONS AND SHUDDERING
Vibrations and shuddering are the most common sign of a failing driveshaft. If the bushings or U-joint wear out you can experience excessive driveshaft vibration. This may also result from the driveshaft not being bolted down properly or the unit being out of balance.
How to Diagnose and Replace Universal Joints (ULTIMATE Guide)