Driveshafts Universal Joints and Yokes
Duramax trucks, along with any other truck, are going to feature universal joints, or u-joints. Universal joints help to transfer power from the transmission to the driveshaft and from the driveshaft to the differential. Over time, your u-joints can start to wear down and cause driveability issues. Merchant Automotive is going to be your one-stop-source for Duramax universal joints and accessories.
What Are The Symptoms Of A Bad Universal Joint?
When it comes to universal joints, the old saying goes “when in doubt, change it out”. Universal joints are relatively easy to change and are an inexpensive part to purchase. U-joints can become damaged or fail due to old age, unintended binding from large loads or misalignment, or rougher driving conditions than what was intended from the factory.
Symptoms of a bad universal joint on a Duramax truck will include:
- Clunking Noises When Shifting Gears
- Vibration When Accelerating or Decelerating
- Loud Metal-On-Metal Banging
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is highly recommended to check your u-joints for any excessive play, damage, or signs of wear. A u-joint that fails on the road can leave you stranded as they play a crucial role in transferring power from your engine to your rear wheels.
How Does A Universal Joint Work?
A universal joint is a joint used to connect two rotating components on different planes so that they do not bind and cause catastrophic failure. These joints are used at the driveshaft to allow uninterrupted power transfer when the vehicle experiences a change in height when encountering bumps in the road. These joints connect the yokes of the transmission and differential to the appropriate ends of the driveshaft. They utilize needle bearings to allow for smooth rotation on each of the ends of the crosses. Once these needle bearings become worn out, they will produce a harsher transfer of power and will most likely produce more noise.
How Much Does It Cost To Replace Duramax Universal Joints?
When it comes to replacing a universal joint on a Duramax truck, the cost is going to be determined by a variety of different factors. The type of truck, the amount of components that need to be replaced, and the cost of the replacement components will all affect the overall cost of replacing universal joints. You can estimate your replacement to be around $250-$500 for a factory replacement u-joint replacement.
