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Old 01-01-2021, 10:25 AM   #1
old31
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Default 31 Universal Joint is it original or repro

2 Questions.

1: How do you know when a ujoint is good or no good?

2: Is this ujoint in the photos an original or repro?
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Old 01-01-2021, 10:35 AM   #2
rotorwrench
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Default Re: 31 Universal Joint is it original or repro

The same basic U-joint was used clear up through 1948 and many more were likely manufactured by outside sources in the auto parts industry.

The bearings/bushings, journals, and splines all wear out eventually. If the splines are still in good condition, the bushings and journal ring can be replaced to put one back in service. If the splines are worn or there is wear or cracks in the yokes then they are beyond repair.
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Old 01-01-2021, 11:51 AM   #3
GRutter
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Default Re: 31 Universal Joint is it original or repro

Quote:
Originally Posted by old31 View Post
2 Questions.

1: How do you know when a ujoint is good or no good?
2: Is this ujoint in the photos an original or repro?
Appears original. In some of the reproductions the yoke is too square, not allowing it to fit within the housing correctly.

There should be NO rotational play on the splines or bushings.
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Old 01-01-2021, 12:41 PM   #4
J Franklin
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Default Re: 31 Universal Joint is it original or repro

That is a replacement u-joint if in a Model A.
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Old 01-01-2021, 12:44 PM   #5
Mulletwagon
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Default Re: 31 Universal Joint is it original or repro

Either original or a very good repro. More likely domestic rather than off shore. Also the more desirable spider type rather than the riveted variety. If no rotational play it would be a good replacement. Since U-joints are such a chore to change best to put in a quality unit rather than a time bomb.
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Old 01-01-2021, 12:48 PM   #6
J Franklin
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Default Re: 31 Universal Joint is it original or repro

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So, what year did Ford change to this type of joint over the original riveted ones during the A production? I guess I could find my judging standards if I could find the garage!
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Old 01-01-2021, 12:49 PM   #7
Flathead
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Default Re: 31 Universal Joint is it original or repro

Looks like a V8 joint which should fit.
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Old 01-01-2021, 02:21 PM   #8
Bob C
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Default Re: 31 Universal Joint is it original or repro

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Originally Posted by J Franklin View Post
So, what year did Ford change to this type of joint over the original riveted ones during the A production? I guess I could find my judging standards if I could find the garage!

The change to the Spicer design is mentioned in the March 10, 1931
Indianapolis Service Letter.
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Old 01-01-2021, 03:33 PM   #9
GRutter
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Default Re: 31 Universal Joint is it original or repro

Most of the "reproduction" parts don't have identification markings cast into the components, and the castings appear "rougher".
The part number is xx-7900 to fit 1928-1948 vehicles. NOS parts are getting hard to find, and as mentioned in my prior post, many of the "new" replacements won't fit correctly in the housing.
Good used universals can still be found. If no rotational play in the splines and bushings, and no other obvious flaws (cracks), then use it. Do not use the riveted style that was original to the A.
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