Universal Joint Guide for the 1958-1962 Lincoln Continental
Keep your classic Lincoln's ride smooth and prevent serious damage by understanding when and how to replace your U-joints.
- A clunking noise when shifting or a vibration at speed are the most common signs of a bad U-joint.
- Do not ignore symptoms; a failed U-joint can cause you to lose control of the car and lead to expensive damage.
- For this classic vehicle, high-quality aftermarket brands like Dana Spicer or SKF are excellent choices.
- It is strongly recommended to replace both U-joints at the same time and consider having the driveshaft balanced.
Is Your Lincoln Making a New Noise? It Could Be the U-Joints.
The universal joints on your 1958-1962 Lincoln Continental are tough, but they don't last forever. After sixty years, the original grease is long gone, and wear and tear take their toll. A failing U-joint is not just noisy; it's a warning sign of a potentially serious and expensive failure. 🎬 Watch: How to tell if your universal joints are bad If a U-joint breaks completely, the driveshaft can fall, digging into the pavement or damaging the transmission, which can cause you to lose control of the vehicle.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket U-Joint
For a classic car like a 1958-1962 Lincoln, finding New Old Stock (NOS) OEM parts is nearly impossible and very expensive. Fortunately, today's aftermarket U-joints are made with modern materials and technology, often making them stronger than the originals. The most important factor is choosing a quality brand.
Aftermarket Brand Quality Tiers
| Tier | Brands | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Premium | Dana Spicer, SKF | Often considered the gold standard. Spicer is a well-known original equipment manufacturer for many car brands. SKF is also highly regarded for its quality bearings and precision manufacturing. These are your best choices for longevity and durability. |
| Quality | Moog, Yukon Gear | Moog is a popular aftermarket brand, though some users report a decline in quality in recent years. Yukon Gear is known for strong, heavy-duty parts, which is a good fit for these large, heavy Lincolns. |
| Standard | GMB | GMB offers a good balance of quality and price. They are a reliable choice for a standard replacement part that meets or exceeds original specifications. |
Pro Tip: Greasable vs. Non-Greasable U-Joints
Many aftermarket U-joints come in two styles: greasable (with a zerk fitting) or non-greasable (sealed). Non-greasable joints are often stronger because the cross is solid metal. Greasable joints require regular maintenance but can potentially last longer if you consistently push out old grease and contaminants. For most owners who are not putting extreme mileage on their classic, a high-quality, non-greasable joint from a brand like Spicer is a strong, fit-and-forget option.
Known Issues for This Generation
There are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from the NHTSA for universal joints on the 1958-1962 Lincoln Continental, which is expected for a vehicle of this age. However, owner forums and restoration articles for these specific models note that their large, heavy, unitized body construction made them prone to vibrations. A worn U-joint will significantly worsen this tendency. Ensuring the entire driveline, 🎬 See this guide on diagnosing drive shaft vibrations including the U-joints, is in top condition is key to a smooth ride.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many U-joints does my 1958-1962 Continental have?
Your Lincoln has a single driveshaft with two universal joints: one at the front connecting to the transmission and one at the rear connecting to the differential (rear axle). It is highly recommended to replace both at the same time.
Do I need to balance the driveshaft after replacing the U-joints?
It is a very good practice. While not always required if the job is done carefully, balancing the driveshaft after installing new U-joints ensures it will spin smoothly without causing vibrations, especially at highway speeds. Mark the driveshaft's orientation to the axle before removal so you can reinstall it the same way.
Is replacing a U-joint a DIY job?
This can be a DIY job for someone with mechanical experience and the right tools. You will need to safely lift and support the vehicle on jack stands, remove the driveshaft, and use a bench vise, a large C-clamp, or a hydraulic press to remove the old joints and install the new ones. Rusted and seized parts can make it a difficult job. If you are not comfortable, a professional mechanic can do it for you.
🎬 Watch: Two ways to replace your U-joints at homeWhat's the difference between outside and outside snap rings?
The 1958-1962 Lincoln Continental uses U-joints with outside snap rings. These rings fit into grooves on the outside of the yokes on the driveshaft to hold the U-joint caps in place. It's important to order the correct type for your vehicle.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
The 1958-1962 Lincoln Continental uses two universal joints, typically a 1310 series or equivalent, with outside snap rings. Specific part numbers like Moog 369 and 353 are listed for the 1961-1962 models. Always verify the fitment for your specific year before ordering.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.