Masterparts stocks a range of quality universal joints for sale at branches across South Africa and in Namibia.
What do the universal joints do in a car?
Universal joints (U-joints) are critical drivetrain components on rear-wheel drive, 4-wheel drive and all-wheel drive vehicles.
Their main function is to connect the propshaft to the gearbox from the one side, and the propshaft to the differential on the other side.
By introducing flexibility at each end of the rigid, rotational shaft, U-joints allow for the continuous transfer of rotational power from the engine to the wheels – even as they move up and down and side to side on the road.
The most common type of U-joint is the cross and roller. The X-shaped component houses round, grooved or needle bearings at each end. The bearings are contained by resilient steel cap.
Most cars have two to three universal joints to align with the single- or two-piece configuration of the propshaft.
How do universal joints work?
Yokes, or the U-shaped components located at the ends of the input and output shafts, fit over each end of the universal joint’s cross.
Basic operation of a universal joint. Source: Van helsing, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
How the universal joint connects two shafts. Source: Wikihow, under CC BY-NC-SA 3.0.
As the input shaft rotates, it turns the U-joint and the U-joint turns the output shaft. Both shafts rotate at the same speed.
Lubricated bearings at each end of the cross allow the shaft to move laterally, and up and down, as the wheels turn, and go over bumps in the road.
Symptoms of worn or damaged universal joints
Universal joints are subjected to high levels of friction and stress. Over time, they can wear and fail.
When there are unusual noises as the car begins to move, clunking sounds as the car is put into reverse, or vibrations felt inside the car, the universal joints are typically the problem.
Where to get universal joints from Masterparts
We offer a range of universal joints suitable for most vehicle makes and models.
Universal joints in and around Cape Town:
Universal joints in Gauteng:
Universal joints in KwaZulu-Natal:
Universal joints in Namibia:
Along with universal joints, Masterparts supplies a full range of suspension, steering, engine, braking and electronic parts for cars. Contact us if there’s a part you need and we’ll do our best to help.
