C1 universal joints

[Ron R.]

I have the engine/tranny back on the frame. In the process of cleaning up my drive shaft I've noticed my U joints have grease fittings, which I understand are incorrect. I have searched the archives and have found a great amount of knowledge from Joe Lucia and the gang about C2-3 Universal Joints, though, nothing pertaining to C1's. Anyone know what ORIGINBAL U joints look like? Anyone know of a source of correct NOS Universal Joints for a 61? If not, are the Universal Joints made by Spicer the next best thing?
Thanks,
Ron
61 project sloooowwwllyy coming along.

[Dennis A.]

Re: C1 universal joints

Ron,

I believe that 56-62 corvettes used "greasable" U-Joints.

[Dave Suesz]

I saw some on eBay...

Last weekend. Just for grins I went to ebaymotors and did a search for "55 Corvette", and one of the items was no-fitting u-joints. I think the guy is a vendor, so even if they are no longer listed, they probably will be again.

[Dave Suesz]

PS...

Although no-fitting joints are considered "correct", GM specified greaseable in their egineering specs, so you could argue that in an odd way the no-fitting originals were "incorrect".

[John H.]

Re: PS...

The ST-12 and Owner's Manuals show fittings to be greased at the U-joints; anybody know of documentation that says C1's didn't have U-joint grease fittings? I've never seen any, and the '57 TM&JG doesn't address it.

[Ron R.]

Re: PS...

Here are the details:

First U Joint:

Body Double breasted on one side
Spicer
AF G I
USA
Large A on opposite side

End caps say "Spicer USA"

2nd U joint:

large square indent/recess on the main body with "Made in USA", each word raised above one corner of the square.
The caps have no indents or letters.

Both have grease fittings.
I know Spicer is an aftermarket producer. Can this 2nd joint be original?

Ron

[ROB DAME MEM# 36211]

Re: PS...

If you find the joints with fittings are correct I think
there is a certain way they should be installed.
If I remember right the joints are installed with fitting
side of joint towards drive shaft?? This will make it
easier to grease and less apt for the fitting to bind
when the joint flexes.But then again I CRS Rob.

[Joe D.]

Re: PS...

I think that the grease fittings should be placed on the compression side of the u joint when installed.