Express 1/2 Ton Van V8-305 5.0L VIN M SFI (1998)
Universal Joint: Description and Operation
The universal joint (1) is connected to the propeller shaft. The universal consists of 4 caps with needle bearings and grease seals mounted on the
trunions of a cross or spider.
These bearings and caps are greased at the factory and no periodic maintenance is required. There are two universal joints used in a one-piece
propeller shaft and three used in a two-piece propeller shaft. The bearings and caps are pressed into the yokes and held in place with snap rings, except
for 2 bearings on some models which are strapped onto the pinion flange of the rear axle.
Universal joints are designed to handle the effects of various loads and rear axle windup conditions during acceleration and braking. The universal
joint operates efficiently and safely within the designed angle variations. When the design angles are exceeded, the operational life of the joint
decreases.
You can install a service kit consisting of a spider bearing and snap rings if a universal joint becomes worn or noisy. If the universal joint needs
replacing, you must remove the propeller shaft (2) from the vehicle. Avoid jamming, bending or over-angulation of any parts of the propeller shaft
when removing or installing.
