Step 1

Establish what style of Universal Joint you are working with. This is important, since u-joints have a different way of measuring depending on the style of u-joint that you have. The way that you measure the u-joint will translate into how you measure the other components you may need. ALWAYS use a set of Vernier Calipers or Micrometers, tape measures will never produce accurate results! These are mechanical parts and require precision

After comparing the Type of U-Joint in Step 1) 

Measure your u-joint in the correct manner and identify what series you have

Outside Snap Rings *Inside Snap Rings **Outside+Inside Snap Rings *** SPRTAB Style **** Bearing Plate *****

Light & Medium Vehicles

Outside Snap Rings *Inside Snap Rings **Outside+Inside Snap Rings *** SPRTAB Style **** Bearing Plate *****

Commercial Vehicles

There are two applications for slip yokes that determines what type of slip yoke you need

• Transmission slip yokes that slide onto the output shaft of your transmission
• Driveshaft slip yokes that allow for the shaft to move in and out during operation

Please follow the steps

• Establish the type of universal joint
• Measure and determine the series of your universal joint
• Determine if you need a transmission or driveshaft slip yoke type
• Count the splines and take note for missing splines. If you count 15 with a gap = 15/16
• OD, the outside diameter of the splined tube
• Major diameter which is used to ensure that the slip yoke and spline fit correctly

There are two types of splines

• Determine if you need a regular stub shaft or a spline to be used with a center or carrier bearing
• Determine the tube you are going to weld the butt end of the spline into (Outside diameter & Wall thickness)
• As a general rule, the (K) measurement of the spline should be about the length (CL) of the slip yoke
• Make sure that the spline major diameter & number of splined teeth matches that of your slip yoke

Midship stub shaft (For use with Carrier Bearings)

Center Bearing's are easy!

They are used to support two piece driveshafts & are identified as follows:

• Compare the shape of the center bearing, do the brackets and general look of the bearing match?
• Take a measurement from the centerline of one mounting hole to the other to establish the length
• Ensure the inner diameter of our bearing matches the diameter of the spline its going onto

Identify your Flange

• First determine the type and series of the universal joint
• Take the measurement from the centerline of one bolt hole to the other on both sides of the flange
• Confirm the flange pilot diameter
• Are the bolt holes drilled or threaded?

Weld in Tube Yokes

• First determine the type and series of your universal joint
• Determine the outer diameter and wall thickness of your driveshaft tubing
• Beware of what material you are working with, aluminum tubing uses aluminum tube yokes