'00 XJ

So I just installed my RE 3.5 lift kit and thought it would be a good idea to change my front and rear driveshafts u-joints since I am already at it. From what I have read in this forum most people recommend going with the spicer u-joints since those were the ones that came from the factory. The thing is I got confused with all of the part numbers. So from what I am aware of is that there are 3 driveshaft u-joints in total are they all the same? If I want to get something that is long-lasting and heavy-duty which part number should I go with? Can I find the bolts and straps somewhere online or should I just go to a local hardware store? I know those are a lot of questions, but I would really appreciate it if you helped me out

 

You should order new straps and bolts from a specialist, very cheap

There are 5 uni joints in the front and rear tailshafts (all the same) and a cardan ball part in the front

 

When you go onto a parts website like Rock Auto for example it shows you the different "grades" of U-joints and also tells you what spot of the vehicle that particular joint will fit.

If you're confused about which ones to buy you may want to try looking at a different vendor that hopefully presents them better.





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So I've found the straps and bolts made by Yukon Gear and Axle for my Dana 30 in the front and Chrysler 8.25 in the rear. For the u-joints isn't there 1 on the rear driveshaft and 2 on the front? (Going with the spicer 1310 since that's what most people recommend)

 

not 3, but 5...one at each end of the rear shaft, and the front has 3, and a cardan ball assembly.

have a look under your vehicle, or free download the Factory Parts Manual

 

I did mine last year went with the Spicer. I would get all new straps,bolts take pics as I always like to put stuff back the same oratation as it came apart especially if it used and balanced and have fun with the cardan assembly as that gave me fits. If our like me nothing goes as planned so buy 1 extra u joint as never fails either I'll crush a needle bearing or drop it and loose some..even with grease.

 

Where did you get the straps and bolts from?

I have found straps for the front DS (https://www.yukongear.com/productdet...px?ProdID=5912), but for the rear DS there are two different types of straps (https://www.yukongear.com/partslist....%20%2797-%2704). The only difference I found between them is the u-joint size. One of them is 7290 and the other is 7260.

 

Got my strap /bolts from Amazon..Precision 437-10 Clamp Kit

 

Strap and bolt kits are common enough that you'll find them "in stock" at a parts retailer like Autozone or Advance... Anytime I'm in doubt I consult the parts manual and make sure I've accounted for all the specific options, then do a google search on the Mopar part number. If you go to RockAuto and search by part number and brand, they sometimes have listings for Mopar parts that aren't included in the regular "Vehicle YMM Engine" listings.

I didn't realize there were many variations.. I've always had whatever was listed fit perfectly and the kits are cheap enough that I like to buy a new one any time I'm removing a driveshaft considering how easily those little bolts round off.

 

I've gone ahead and ordered the spicer strap kit from amazon (Part number: 2-70-18X) since spicer has a very good reputation. True about the fact that they are cheap and it is not worth using the old ones.