Before installing a replacement part, you always want to make sure that the part is working right. When you're dealing with universal joints, you may be concerned with how stiff they feel when moved by hand.
You might be wondering if you purchased a malfunctioning u-joint. If you find yourself in this predicament, don't worry; new u-joints are common to feel stiff at first.
New U-Joints Should Feel Pretty Stiff When Moved By Hand
U-joints are precision bearings. This means they should be able to move freely in both axes. Nonetheless, it is usual for a new u-joint to feel somewhat hard when moved by hand, even when well oiled. When installing the new u-joint, after inserting the first two caps into the yoke, carefully tap the joint back from either side. Do this after you've pushed the caps into place and installed the clips. Tapping the joint back from each side keeps the caps firm against the clips. This may loosen up the u-joints slightly.
If a new u-joint becomes stuck as you move it by hand, that's awful. Also, any "catching" in the movement is not desirable. If you find either problem, extract the joint and inspect the bearing to ensure that none of them have moved out of place. It should be fine to feel stiffness as long as your new u-joints allow for fluid motion with no sticking.
U-Joints Loosen Up As They Wear
You may have observed that your old u-joints feel much looser than the new ones. It's because u-joints loosen with wear. The grease in a u-joint deteriorates over time. Are you concerned that your new u-joints will be too stiff, despite the fact that they provide a smooth motion without sticking? Check them again after a few weeks of use. They will almost probably feel looser. After the initial break-in period, they should continue to feel the same way for quite some time.
Be Careful Not To Press The Caps In Too Far
When installing a new u-joint, take care not to press the caps too far in. When this occurs, the end of the cross will rub against the inside end of the cap. This may cause the u-joint to fail. The caps should be forced in just enough to install the retaining clips.
It's important to replace bad u-joints right away. It's also equally as important to install your u-joints the right way.
If you're in the market for new u-joints, you can't go wrong with Wenqi Machinery
