81K miles and 3rd set of front axle u-joints!
#1
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81K miles and 3rd set of front axle u-joints!
Had a clicking noise coming from the front end again and dealer says it's a front axle u-joint. This will be the third time replacing them in only 81k miles. Am I doing something wrong here or are they really that weak? I never run the truck in 4wd on dry surfaces but I do run it on the beach occasionally, could sand be getting in these sealed u-joints? Considered the EMS hub system but for now I am still under extended warranty and the work is covered so after the warranty expires I think I'm going for it. Any one know what a reasonable install price one should expect to pay for the EMS? Any good shops in the northwest NJ area?
Thanks,
Sticky
Thanks,
Sticky
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I'm getting u-joints installed in a couple of days. My dealer has 2 options, one an exact replacement of the factory installed u-joints - sealed units. The option that I'm getting installed have grease fittings, hopefully these will last longer than 110,000 km ~70k miles.
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Greaseable ones are a WAY better option as long as you grease them. If a cup gets damaged or anything, the others will dry out and are toast instantly. Greaseable ones are also cheaper FYI. They should last longer, but sealed units are retarded so who knows.
#6
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Are you washing your truck when you get home from the beach? I pressure wash my truck after every surf-fishing trip with the lowest pressure nozzle kept a fair distance away from the truck. Do not apply direct high pressure water to the u-joints as it will force water/sand inside the cups.
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Yea, I just rinse everything off with a garden hose. I do run the beach with a 3500-4500lb truck camper on board so maybe it's just too much stress on the front u-joints. I imagine this top heavy weight can also be suspect of the premature ball joint failures too. Anyway, work is done and the noise is gone so lets see how long it'll go this time.
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#10
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Yea, I just rinse everything off with a garden hose. I do run the beach with a 3500-4500lb truck camper on board so maybe it's just too much stress on the front u-joints. I imagine this top heavy weight can also be suspect of the premature ball joint failures too. Anyway, work is done and the noise is gone so lets see how long it'll go this time.
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