Maybe I'm totally off base here (wouldn't be the first time), but I think we're talking about the cork seal that goes at the rear of the ball. The collar that holds the ball in place is adjusted by adding or removing paper (thin cardboard) shims. On the other end is the cork seal that that seals the rear of the ball to the front of the torque tube.
It sounds to me like the mechanic isn't using the two metal retainers that go on either side of the cork. It's a PITA to get it in there, but it seals pretty well. The two washers surround the cork and protect it. Without the washers the cork would be destroyed in no time. Is this the problem?
Never seen a problem with the cork piece that fits inside the collar. I guess you could tear it up if you put it in too tight, but seems questionable. When I redid mine I put a little gear lube on the facing surface of the cork and adjusted it by adding the cardboard gaskets before I reattached the U-joint. Check your shop manual, it tells how to do it. Then you'd know it was installed properly.
Last edited by David Bush; 02/11/2016 3:11 AM.
