U-Joint inspection ?

[Deleted User 1107]

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]

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]

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]

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)