[FC] U-joints

[Larry Forman]

At 10:59 AM 7/21/2006, Ben and Lynn Stiles wrote:
>Foks-
>
>Do the universal joints on the Greenbrier have a grease fitting?
>
>Mine (one or both?) click when cornering, and at other times. Do 
>they need lubed?
>
>Ben

Hi Ben,
The DID and now they need replacement.  The replacement U-joints do 
have grease fittings.  I am not sure about the originals, but you 
should replace any originals after all this time anyway.

The clicking sound is likely some destroyed rollers so replacement is 
called for.  You could try lubing them, but I suspect it would be a 
waste of time.

While you are replacing them, consider lubing the axle bearings 
too.  Complete lubing instructions are in the CORSA Tech Guide.

The FC axle bearings are quite expensive.  Lubing them makes 
sense.  Also check the axle yokes for any rotational play indicating 
the internal axle yoke splines are going away.  The inboard rollers 
can be inspected and replaced if you disassemble another axle for 
spare parts.  The outboard rollers can only be accessed for a trashed 
axle for spare rollers.  I find less than 30% of the rollers are in 
great shape.  About 10-20% are pretty bad for most axles by this time.

I JUST replaced my driver's side axle yoke since I noticed too much 
rotational slop when tightening the brakes.  In checking where the 
slop originated, it was in the axle to axle yoke interface.  I had 
about 10 percent(!) of the spline remaining, so it was quite close to 
failing.  I recommend carrying a spare axle yoke and puller just in 
case for most trips.  A spare axle with lubed bearing and the puller 
for longer trips.

In thinking about this, it might make sense to paint some lines 
between the axle and axle yoke.  That way, if there is any rotation 
slop it would show up as a crack in the paint line and maybe even an 
offset as they rotate relative to each other.

Good luck,

Larry