I have reservations about using needle bearings in this application. The design of the entire u-joint assembly is archaic. "Improving" it with needle bearings seems to me like putting lipstick on a pig, as well as possibly creating a weak link in an already troublesome design.
It will likely work just fine when installed, but what happens with wear, or lack of adequate lubrication, or missing a gear on a shift. Solid bushings are much more forgiving under harsh conditions.
Either that or these needle bearings are the best thing since sliced bread. Time will tell. (BTW, was any of you in here around before sliced bread?)
Carl
