RE-Using U-Joint straps?

[Matt Bachand]

What's people's opinions on this, and how tight should I torque the old, or the NEW ones too (If i need to buy them).

Also, what brands do people like? Anyone make a better srap that is not in question to fail?

 

[ak diesel driver]

Are you talking U-bolts or the straps that keep the leafs lined up? If you are talking u-bolts it's generally accepted to replace. Having said that I have reused without problem. The biggest problem is getting them apart.

 

[ak diesel driver]

Ah I see now read your other thread. I've personally never seen any different brands etc. But I have reused them many times. Even on my Ford with the 428cj in it I would have to change the U-joint every month or 2. I actually stretched the u-joint. To much hp for the u-joint I finally upgraded to a bigger driveshaft and u-joint.

 

[Matt Bachand]

Changed Title to read U-Joint instead of U-Bolt Thanks for pointing that out.

i don't think i'm stretching them due to torque, Maybe when I had the sander a 1 1/2 years ago?? I have no problems with the U-joints there, just the strap was finger tight the bolts. I retorqued all my straps and they were all tightened up quite a bit. Then heard not to re-use them. Read an article about them being a weakpoint. Not sure what to do. Just keep em on, or buy new ones from dealer?

 

[ak diesel driver]

You might try some new lock nuts.

 

[ak diesel driver]

I wasn't stretching the straps it was the actual ujoint the stock ford was a wierd joint with one side being dif then the other never had any problems with the straps. If I was a clutch dropper I'm sure I would have blown them. This was from throttling after rolling.

 

[Matt Bachand]

You might try some new lock nuts.

The threads are in the yolk. They seem fine just tightened. Classic case of forum paranoia