Re: Driveshaft Repair

Posted by PackardV8 On 2013/3/29 7:59:29

If conversion to the mechanics joint is chosen then be sure the u joint itself has a grease fitting in it.

The DEtroit joint (ball and trunion) is an excellent u-joint. But it has a weak spot, the rubber boot. My very low mileage and original/always garage kept and city driven by original owner 56 Exec had a tear in the boot when i bought the car 15 years ago. Replacing the boot requires complete disassembly of the joint which requires a very heavy machine shop type press. Or it did on mine. Or my 3 ton arbour press wouldn't do it (as pictured in the SM).

I like the Detroit joint, but that rubber boot is the weak spot for any road debris that mite tear it. I've seen at least 2 others over the years with tears on mid 60's Plymouths.

Quite often we here about modern day cars with front wheel drive that have torn rubber boots on the CV joints.

There is no such boots on the mechanics type joint and that is why they are often used on front axles of OFF ROAD 4wd vehicles. Off road vehicles are subject to alot of debris.