71DodgeDemon340
Well-Known Member
Has anyone used the lakewood chromoly u joints? I usually go with spicer but looking at different options. Im needing new 7290 u joints for my demon
Kush....
FWIW, any u-joint that has a grease fitting in the "cross" between the bearing caps should be installed so the fitting hole is under load/compression.
I didn't know that Spicer solids were not available in 7290. I've only used 7260 and more recently, 1350 in my Aspen wagon on the Dana 60 end.
Don't have time for more research at the moment, but I found this new product!
Spicer® Extreme™ U-Joints - Driveshaft | Spicer Parts
It appears that the Spicer Life Series U-joints are the ones that my driveline shop recommended. They are listed as "solid" and not greasable. So without finding one to pull apart, I would assume that they are not cross-drilled for lube distribution.
for offroad use only and only available in front axle sizes from what i can find
If you worry about the tiny holes drilled for grease as a weak point, I suggest going to a bigger U joint. A 1350 or 1410 for example.
Neapco's are good joints. Maybe not the best, but very good quality. They have a Neapco factory down in Beatrice NE. So I know some of them are made in the US.
Once Summit inspects the part and deems it was installed, even with zero miles, they call it used and will not issue a refund. BTDTGonna send the neapcos back to summit for a refund.
There not supposed to.BTW - Do U joints w/o a grease fitting eventually need to be greased?
On new sealed solid U joint I get, I take them apart just to double check each cap has grease inside of it. The bearings are roller so they do not get packed like a wheel bearing. What I do is just add a cap full of grease to what is already there in each cap, slide the cap back on and go. The centrifugal force will provide all the gravity and pressure needed to force the grease I put in the cap as the old grease wears out & thins.If so, how? (remove and pack like front wheel bearings?)
That is correct. That’s the idea. As delivered, it should be a life time U joint under normal use.Or, are newer U-Joints w/o grease fittings "sealed" and dont' require maintenance?