A worn universal joint is the most common drive shaft problem. This problem usually makes itself known with abnormal noises. Symptoms may include squeaking, grinding, clicking or clunking sounds when the car is in gear. Before the problem becomes severe, these symptoms may appear at first only when the car is in reverse.
Universal joint problems
Many times, the grease inside a universal joint will dry out. This leads to small indentations being worn by the roller bearings into the part of the joint known as the cross. As the bearings are forced to roll across the indentations, a loud grinding or chirping may be heard. When these problems become evident, it is time to replace the universal joint.
Noise
Unfortunately there is no way to tell if a u-joint is going bad just by looking at it. And tearing apart your driveshaft to physically inspect the u-joint is not a task most car owners care to do without reason. Therefore, most drivers rely on noise to let them know it's time to replace the joint. One way that may be telling is to turn your front tires all the way to one side or the other and drive around very slowly in a circle. Many times, if your u-joint is going bad, a distinct "clicking" sound can be detected by educated ears.
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Vibration
Another way to detect when a u-joint needs to be replaced is by highway vibration. The vibration could become worse when accelerating and lessen when you back off the throttle. Of course, vibration can come from many other sources such as bad wheel bearings or loose lug nuts. Therefore, any vibration must be investigated by a qualified mechanic.
Put You Car on a Rack
If you have noticed any of the signs that your u-joint may be going bad, putting it on a mechanic's rack will tell the tale. With the car in gear and the emergency brake engaged, firmly grasp the drive shaft and try to rotate it. There should be no play in the u-joint. Even as little as 1/32 of an inch indicates immediate replacement. A good mechanic will be familiar with checking the drive shaft in this manner and can offer expert advice.
Facts
Most drive shafts employ two U-joints. The joints permit the vehicle to have changes in the alignment between the transmission and the differential. Essentially, the universal joint works by connecting two yokes at 90-degree angles to a cross. The yokes are free to pivot, and so the joint can spin while the drive shaft changes its angle.
Safety
When you have verified your u-joint is going bad, don't wait to replace it. Having one explode into pieces at highway speeds presents a dangerous, if not deadly, situation. Sharp metal parts will bounce down the asphalt at speeds rapid enough to injure those on the road following you, and you very well could loose control of your car when your heavy steel driveshaft hits the ground.
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