U-Joint inspection ?

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Joined
Sep 8, 2007
Messages
10
Is there a low-tech way to determine the condition of a U-Joint? (On a machine one is looking at purchasing, and doesn't want to spend a grand having the dealer look over first ....) Wiggle by hand or gently with a pry bar and look for play? how much? What would the Bobcat mechanic do? I ask because 1) this looks like a real pricey part, and 2) it looks like it is enough of a hassle to lube that some people might tend to skimp on regular maintenance. Any thoughts appreciated. TIA Mickey
 

Tazza

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Dec 7, 2004
Messages
16,829
I don't believe there is a way to inspect it short of pulling the engine and giving it a wiggle. Expensive? no! the damage it can cause if it goes bad sure can be expensive though.
A set of U-Joints will run you around $100 - 150, maybe less. I think mine cost 35 for one and 45 for the other. That was a VERY good price and thats in AUD.
Even greasing them is a headache when installed. The previous owner of one of my 743's had the rite idea, they cut a hole in the chassis so you could gain access to grease then VERY easily. It should be a factory *mod* it was a breeze, and even easier to align the end of the U-Joint to the pump!!!
As long as the engine and hydrostats are good, don't let the thought of bad U-Joints spoil it, they can be changed fairly easily, If you are worried, change them or at least check them and give it a good squirt of grease.
 

Fishfiles

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Joined
Feb 8, 2007
Messages
1,698
The way I grease the u joints on a 43 series is to put two 12 inch grease gun hoses together with a coupler , use a remote starter switch and rotate the u joints so that you can access the fitting , it helps to have a air , hand squeeze type or cordless style grease gun that can be operated with one hand as you need the other hand to hold the tip on the grease gun
 

Zorack

Well-known member
Joined
May 27, 2007
Messages
123
The way I grease the u joints on a 43 series is to put two 12 inch grease gun hoses together with a coupler , use a remote starter switch and rotate the u joints so that you can access the fitting , it helps to have a air , hand squeeze type or cordless style grease gun that can be operated with one hand as you need the other hand to hold the tip on the grease gun
I was going to post in this thread the other day but a server side error had shown up and I completely lost whatever I was going to post(and I've forgotten it to boot)
 
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