U-joint by Drake

[PaintShaker]

Has anyone used the Bob Drake u-joint in a Model A? If so, was it a success? In the past some have mentioned the possibility of interference with the enclosure. I want to learn about the experience of others before moving ahead. Thanks.

 

[Hitman]

I had one and found they don’t articulate as well as an original u joint. The V8 era originally had this needle design, they started with the Lincoln’s. Those drivelines are much longer than an A. When the suspension is unloaded in normal road travel, the could bind in the shorter A driveline. I sent mine back, and have used NOS ever since without worry.

Put a drake needle bearing u joint next to an original A style and you’ll see what im talking about. Originals allow greater angles than the drake.

The drake u joints are nice. They just need the longer driveline.

 

[Bob Bidonde]

Both of my Model A's have Spicer type u-joints for years / thousands of miles of service without any issues. The joints are original Ford parts I have rebuilt with new bearings.

 

[ErnieF]

I have one in my A. It installed without issue and I have a couple thousand miles on it so far. No problems at all.

 

[rotorwrench]

I've only read a few complaints about using the Lincoln type u-joints on the early Ford V8 applications but not on model As. A lot depends on how the vehicle is used. The torque tube drive also depends on what lubricant is used and how well that lubricant gets into the joint. If it can't get in there very well then that will definitely affect the life of the bearings.