This is probably a dumb question, but I'm gonna ask it anyhow for my peace of mind. I just replaced both u-joints in my driveshaft, more because in had it out of the car and accessible and they look to be the original ones, than because they were going bad. I got the new ones in with minimal problems, and got the retaining C clips installed on all the caps except for the 2 that fit under the straps on the rear end. Do I need to put the clips on those 2 caps, or will it be fine without them. I don't recall seeing any clips on the original u-joint, so I dont think they will be needed, but wanted to get the opinion of those more knowledgeable than I.

On a related point, should I look into installing a driveshaft loop? The car will never see the track, or triple-digit speeds. I'm sure I'll go stoplight-to-stoplight once in a while, and love driving the twisty back roads near me though. If one is recommended, I'll most likely fab my own instead of buying one, simply because I like fabbing stuff and welding, not because I'm concerned with any cost savings as they don't seem to be that expensive.

 

The caps that are retained by the straps don't need the clips; it'll be fine. But upon removal of the driveshaft, be careful when you remove the straps. So the caps don't fall off and then you have all those needle bearings EVERYWHERE!

On the driveshaft for normal driving....probably not. But if you like to fab things, go for it, it can't hurt! jmo

 

As long as the yoke which uses straps to hold the caps has tangs to keep the caps from sliding out then you don't need the clips.

With no tangs or clips, the caps will slide out from under the straps before you get to the first stop sign.

 

They are the original factory straps. I don't remember seeing anything like a tang on them. Guess it won't hurt to put the clips in, even if the straps will hold by themselves?

Btw, I'm running a fourthgen rear if that makes a difference.

 

The tangs are on the yoke to keep the caps from sliding off.

 

Yeah like alky said. The tangs are on the pinion yoke. The U joint fits into the yoke and on each side it has a cast'ed in little square. That keeps the joint/caps from moving side to side.

No clips needed.

Also no real need for a driveshaft loop with a mild engine and street use. If you want it for peace of mind, fab up one. It won't hurt to have it but again not really needed.

 

If they are the original straps then yes, put the clips on there. If not you'll be in for a mess. I recently replaced mine and had to put the clips on there as well, at first I thought the straps would hold it but was wrong (driveshaft could be wiggled by hand). It's all of maybe 5 minutes extra work.

 

Never thought to look on the yoke Probably explains why it's always been such a pain to remove the driveshaft from the yoke. I have to pop it out with a large screwdriver or small pry bar.

Thanks to everyone for the help!