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Joe K · 03-28-2019, 07:41 PM

It has not been mentioned, but grease is only REQUIRED on the early "ring" type universal joint.

The later "cross & yoke" style popularized by Dana/Spicer are made with sealed needle bearings - which are pre-lubricated. Some of the crosses DO include a grease zerk which is a one-time fill until you see it squirt from the needle seals, but no more - much like any zerk lubricated bearing.

In many modern cars and trucks these universals are fully exposed to the weather and soldier on in their function for a good 100K miles. One wonders how long they would last in an enclosed space such as the universal clamshell?

I usually put only enough grease into the clamshell to "coat" the yokes/cross to prevent rust and allow the clamshell free movement. Also the splines need a dab of grease on assembly as there is the possibility of a sliding fit here.

If you own the earlier "ring" type universal - more is better - up to a point where the universal slings it off. I might give that one a cup or so of grease.

Joe K

03-28-2019, 07:41 PM	#19
Joe K Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2010 Location: Cow Hampshire Posts: 4,188	Re: How much grease in the clamshell? It has not been mentioned, but grease is only REQUIRED on the early "ring" type universal joint. The later "cross & yoke" style popularized by Dana/Spicer are made with sealed needle bearings - which are pre-lubricated. Some of the crosses DO include a grease zerk which is a one-time fill until you see it squirt from the needle seals, but no more - much like any zerk lubricated bearing. In many modern cars and trucks these universals are fully exposed to the weather and soldier on in their function for a good 100K miles. One wonders how long they would last in an enclosed space such as the universal clamshell? I usually put only enough grease into the clamshell to "coat" the yokes/cross to prevent rust and allow the clamshell free movement. Also the splines need a dab of grease on assembly as there is the possibility of a sliding fit here. If you own the earlier "ring" type universal - more is better - up to a point where the universal slings it off. I might give that one a cup or so of grease. Joe K __________________ Shudda kept the horse.