What we are seeing is not the u-joint failing, but a clip that holds them in falling out, leading to further damage in most cases. This is NOT a good thing. U-joints are not designed to be a weak point, they just ARE a weak point.

 

Thanks all for the feedback

I would really like to know how this thing works?!?!

so that if I ever destroy it on the trails again I can repair it!

As far as the Jeep goes. it's in the shop and looks like it will get taking care of but not 100% sure yet so i'll know for sure tomorrow.

If there are instructions of how to make a quick fix please share.


I would love to fix it on my own the problem is tools and the dealer will not give me the parts for free.

but it would be fun getting to work on it my self


Again thanks for all the feedback

If you have any step by step of how to fix this on the trails that would be great to share.

I will keep you posted with all the updates as far as the fix goes

 

Why is tig welding the caps better than mig welding? Just curious.

 

tig creates lower heat than a mig does

 

Curious to a field fix to get you to a shop. Could this be wrapped with duct tape to get you off the trails and to a shop? Possibly if you still had the cap with some grease in it, maybe better?

 

Where is the best place to buy this u-joint?

 

looks like napa might have them or order from quadratrac

 

I have a question. On my 02 TJ, I have never had a problem with the U joints caps coming off. But after reading this on here and other places this seems like a trend that is happening. Are the clips on theese different than the TJ? Or do you all think this is a problem from D/C? I am going to buy a JK, but I dont like some of the things I have been reading.

 

Wow man... the altitude must be getting to you (lived in the Springs for a few years myself, miss it!)

Thats harsh because really this has happened to people running 32's (stock). So what you just said really means anyone that takes their jeep off road needs to know how to change a U-joint... I bet about 90 percent of the people on this forum couldnt change their oil much less a U-joint.

The JK has opened the door for family guys who use that as people movers not true off roading... its a different Jeep mentality with the JK.

 

This is the kind of crap attitude that gets under my skin. This guy came here with a legit question and even expressed interest in learning to fix it himself and because of his post you've deduced that he is a rich yuppie mall crawler and not a 'real jeeper' such as yourself. Well guess what 4lo, we dont need any 'true jeeper police' around here. Get over yourself. Instead of making some tired lame judgement on someone, offer some real advice since you obviously know how to change a u-joint.