The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Driveline 4 speed u joint

I finally found a u joint assembly for my 52 4 speed (enclosed driveshaft). However the u joint has quite a bit of play and I'd like to replace it with a new one before I put it into service. I looked at a few places but the replacement you joints look to have a ring clip to secure them in the assembly (like a normal u joint) but the one that is in the assembly I have now is held in by a ring type flange that slips over 2 of the u joint ends and then bolt to the assembly. Does anyone know where to get a replacement one or is the u joint allowed to be "floppy"? I know this is not acceptable on modern u joints.

Thanks for your time,
Wade

Any of the aftermarket suppliers have them. e.g. http://www.oldchevytrucks.com/cart/index.asp

If you are talking about side play in the cross, that is the way it is made. The torque tube keeps the U" joint centered.

If I follow your description correctly I think what you may have is a Mechanics joint whereas what you describe as "normal" is a Spicer type. Both use a different type of yoke. The small Spicer types go inside a hole and are secured by the ring you mention. Mechanics are bolted to the flange face of the yoke.

There are Cleveland, Spicer, Mechanics, and other brands so it does get confusing.