Conversion, Combination & Crossover U-Joints & Parts

A u-joint is a drivetrain component that connects a driveshaft to either the transmission or an axle housing assembly. It contains caps on each of its four ends. Inside these caps are needle bearings allowing them to turn. This lets the cap swivel on the joint body, allowing driveshaft angle to change due to suspension travel and axle housing movement. The u joint is held in place by either yoke straps or retainer clips. A combination u joint / conversion u joint / crossover u joint is a u joint that has two different sizes on its connection points. This can happen when swapping different drive shafts, transmissions, or rear axle housings. It can also be part of the original design. A u joint size chart, u-joint cross reference chart, or conversion u joint chart will help you to identify which type of u-joint you have by size so you can purchase the correct replacement to complete your drivetrain project. The Size chart contains dimensions such as cap diameter, the span of the u-joint, and more.

Removal of a u-joint from the driveshaft involves extracting the u-joint cap retainer clips, which either hold the u-joint in place inside or outside of the yoke. A removal tool such as needle nose pliers or a u-joint puller, or flathead screwdriver will aid in separation. Once the clips are removed, the u-joint can be taken out of position for a u joints replacement.

When checking a u-joint, first examine the exterior of the joint, with special attention to the outside of the u-joint caps. If they are pitted, rusted, or corroded, replacement is recommended. Next, spin the cap on the u-joint body. If it is either loose fitting or seized, replacement is required. Next, carefully remove the caps, noting all of the needle bearings inside. There should be enough grease around the bearings to allow the cap to spin on the u-joint body. If the needle bearings are damaged or missing, a replacement u-joint is required.

A JEGS expert is ready to answer your questions and help you find the u joints that you require for your specific application.