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Which Universal Joint Is Right For You?
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Drive Conditions |
Type |
Normal City / Highway |
Dirty / Dusty |
Extreme Weather |
Heavy Towing |
Off-Road / Racing |
Economy
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Standard Replacement
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Heavy Duty |
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Greasable vs. Non-Greasable While non-greasable universal joints were once considered an upgrade over greasable universal joints, the differences in strength and durability are negligible today. Advancements in technology mean either option is a great choice, but there are some key pros and cons to consider:
NON-GREASABLE |
- Pros: Non-Greasable U-Joints do not need to be serviced regularly. After installation, these U-Joints require little upkeep and primarily need to be monitored for signs of failure.
- Cons: Since these U-Joints cannot be re-greased, the entire U-Joint must be replaced at the first sign of wear / noise as to not risk failure.
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GREASABLE |
- Pros: Greasable U-Joints are serviceable and contaminants can be flushed out easily. Regular maintenance and greasing also means you'll be more in tune with the wear status of the joints.
- Cons: These U-Joints need to be checked and greased regularly. If this sounds unfavorable or if you're forgetful, non-greasable may be a better choice.
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Preventative Maintenance Tips The key to maximizing the performance and durability of any universal joint - as well as related parts such as drive shafts - is preventative maintenance. Universal joints are designed to last the life of the vehicle, but can wear down or break if neglected or overloaded. Follow these tips to avoid premature failure of your vehicle's drivetrain:
- If a greasable universal joint is installed, periodically check them to ensure they are properly greased (at the very least, at every oil change).
- Inspect the yokes that hold your universal joints for cracks, stress marks, or worn or damaged seal mating surfaces, and replace them if any of these are present.
- Check your seals for signs of leakage, and replace them if leaks are present.
- Periodically check for drive shaft play, which is an indication that a universal joint or seal has failed and needs to be replaced.
- Inspect drive shafts for cracks, stress marks, dents, or bends, and replace them if any of these are present.
ACDelco Quality ACDelco breaks down their premium portfolio of Original Equipment and Aftermarket parts into two tiers: GM Original Equipment and ACDelco Gold.
GM ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT |
GM Original Equipment parts are the true OE parts installed during production or validated by GM—designed, engineered, and tested to rigorous standards and backed by General Motors. |
ACDELCO GOLD (PROFESSIONAL) |
ACDelco Gold parts are the high-quality alternative to OE parts, manufactured to meet GM expectations for fit, form, and function and backed by General Motors. |
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ACDELCO Warranty Information:Limited Lifetime: Gold Series: Belts & Hoses, Chassis Parts, Universal Joints
7 Year / Unlimited Mile: Gold Series Double Platinum Spark Plugs, Gold Series Iridium Spark Plugs
4 Year / Unlimited Mile: Iridium Improved Performance Spark Plugs
3 Years: Rapidfire Performance Spark Plugs
24 Month / Unlimited Miles: Gold Series: Air Conditioning Products, Bearings,
Brakes, Conventional Spark Plugs, Electronics, Emission Control Products, Engine Components,
Filters, Fuel Pumps, Glow Plugs, Ignition parts, Light Bulbs, Marine Spark Plugs, Other Fuel Products,
Power Steering Pumps, Rack-and-Pinion Gears, Starters and Alternators, Steering & Drive Products, Thermostats/Caps, Transmission Products, Water Pumps, Window Motors, Window Regulators, Wipers, Wires & Cables
12 Month / Unlimited Miles: Silver Series: Bearings, Brake Parts, Chassis Parts, Wipers
Warranty Details |
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