Quick U-Joint Question…

[nailhead_sled]

Just a quick question regarding what seems to be a bad U-Joint.
I’ve noticed a slight squeak at low forward speeds and the tell tale vibration (nothing major- just enough to feel), but when in reverse at low speeds the squeaking is much more noticeable-loud enough to hear with the windows up.

This has me puzzled- why would the squeak be louder in reverse? The joint is at the same angle in both directions, so what gives?

Just looking for any alternate possibilities before I freeze my butt of tomorrow replacing the U-Joints.

 

[sabatosh]

maybe the rear differential is low on fluid??

 

[BuffaloXplorer]

Could it just sound louder b/c you're driving into the noise as opposed to away from it? Sounds logical

Seriously, it could be the rear diff. Check the level and report back.

 

[sabatosh]

A bad u joint generally will contribute to drive axle knock at low torque speeds not squeak...Since the drive would put more output on shaft when in reverse you have to expect that is why it's louder. But it certainly can be the differential, unless the classic signs of knock are seen indicating the drive axle is out of alignment.

 

[BuffaloXplorer]

I've found that bad UJs DO in fact squeak. They will also knock upon initial engagement and/or switching between D & Reverse (and vice-versa) if bad enough

 

[nailhead_sled]

Had a friend drive slowly in both directions while I walked alongside and listened.
The squeak sounds just like a shot ball joint and seems be coming from where the driveshaft meets the t-case, so I am thinking this is the bad u-joint.
There is no overly harsh knock on engagement of either gear, and the vibration is just barley enough to notice at 60km/h.
I am planning to swap out the universal joints tomorrow and see if it cures the problem.

 

[nailhead_sled]

Yup, it was the u-joints.
Took longer to find my press than it did to swap the joints