Universal Joints

Unknown

Hello Gang,

The gremlins that eat all things mechanical visited this week and left

me with a pile of half-masticated driveshaft parts. While driving my

'29 sedan I was chagrined to hear an ominous "snap" then observed an

inability to continue further on my journey. A quick inspection

revealed that the flange on the rear end pinion was cleanly broken in

two, the driveshaft was disconnected from it, and one axis of the rear

universal joint was siezed and prevented motion. Taking this apart

revealed some ugly welding on the rear joint where it had been

previously repaired. I suppose it finally wanted to retire. An

inspection of the front universal revealed it to be not much better.

I have welded my flange back together and turned it down on a lathe,

and am replacing both the universals. A faint memory of Chris Purdum

and a search of the threads revealed some use of modern universals, so

I went down to the local driveline shop and found two that seem to

work: Spicer 5-1203X. Just wanted to advertise this part number if

anyone else needs it. I would imagine these will work better with

forced lubrication and modern needle bearing cups, however as

mentioned before the driveshaft will have to be removed for greasing.

Cost of doing business.



The coming cold season might be a good time to pull yours out and

check them for wear and freedom of motion. My only regret is while at

Hershey I found a complete rear end for a '27 and didn't buy it; it

would probably have had the flange I need and I wouldn't have repaired

mine.



Best Regards,

James Coats