Drive Shaft U-Joints

Material: Carbon Steel (1215, 12L14), Alloy Steel (4340)
Size Range: 25 mm – 150 mm
Application: Automotive driveshafts, industrial machinery, agricultural equipment
Surface: Phosphate, Zinc Plated, Black Oxide
MOQ: 10 pcs

Product Parameters

Item	Specification
Material	Carbon Steel (1215, 12L14), Alloy Steel (4340)
Size Range	25 mm – 150 mm
Application	Automotive driveshafts, industrial machinery, agricultural equipment
Surface	Phosphate, Zinc Plated, Black Oxide
MOQ	10 pcs

description

Drive shaft U-joints - universal joints - allow the driveshaft to transmit torque while accommodating the angular misalignment between transmission output and differential input. The U-joint must handle high torque loads, survive millions of rotation cycles, and maintain proper angle through suspension travel. Cross and yoke style U-joints are the most common configuration - two yokes at right angles connected by a cross that allows rotation in multiple axes. The cross bearing surfaces ride in needle bearings for low friction and high load capacity. 1215 and 12L14 free-machining steel are used for yokes where machinability and cost matter. 4340 alloy steel provides higher strength for heavy-duty and performance applications.

Phases of U-Joint Failure

U-joints fail in stages: first the bearing caps loosen, then the needle bearings wear, then the cross itself wears. If you hear clicking at low speeds and clunking at acceleration changes, the U-joint is already in the later stages of wear. Regular greasing extends U-joint life significantly - the grease cavity in the bearing cap is there for a reason.

FAQ

Q1: MOQ?

A1: 10 pieces.

Q2: Size range?

A2: 25 mm to 150 mm based on cross width and bearing bore size.

Q3: Materials?

A3: 1215, 12L14 free-machining steel for yokes. 4340 for high-strength applications.

Q4: Surface finish?

A5: Phosphate standard (oil-retaining). Zinc plating and black oxide alternatives.

Q5: Custom configurations?

A5: Yes. Custom yoke sizes, spline configurations, flange connections.

Q6: Quality verification?

A6: Yes. Bearing fit inspection and torque testing available.

Quality is non-negotiable in precision manufacturing. Every component undergoes rigorous inspection at each stage of production.

IATF 16949 - Automotive quality management system for safety-critical components
PPAP / PPF - Production Part Approval Process documentation available on request
AIAG Core Tools - APQP, FMEA, SPC, and MSA documentation on demand
Passivation / Electropolishing - ASTM A967 procedures for corrosion resistance
Material Traceability - Heat number tracking from raw material to finished part

From raw material to finished product, every step is controlled and documented:

Material Preparation - CNC turning/milling to near-net shape
Heat Treatment - Through-hardening or case-hardening for strength-critical parts
Surface Preparation - Degreasing, acid cleaning, and surface activation
Electroplating - Controlled bath process with thickness monitoring
Sealing / Baking - Chrome sealing, anodize sealing, or hydrogen embrittlement relief baking
Inspection - Coating thickness measurement, adhesion testing, and visual check
Packaging - Protective interleaving, VCI packaging, and anti-tarnish wrapping

Hot Tags: drive shaft u-joints, China drive shaft u-joints manufacturers, Drive Shaft U Joints, I Beam Rods, Lateral Arms, Suspension Control Arms, Tie Rod Knuckles, U-Joints