A Guide to Universal Joints for the 1968-1976 Dodge Dart
Keep your classic Dart's driveline smooth and reliable by choosing the right replacement U-joint.
- The most common signs of failure are clunking when shifting, vibrations at speed, and low-speed squeaking.
- You must confirm if your Dart uses the smaller 7260 or larger 7290 series U-joints before ordering parts.
- Dana Spicer is the most recommended brand for quality and durability in Mopar forums.
- Replacing U-joints is a manageable DIY task, but failure to do so can lead to a dangerous driveshaft separation.
Is Your Dodge Dart's U-Joint Failing?
A worn-out U-joint gives clear warning signs. Ignoring them can lead to more damage or even a driveshaft separating from the car, which is a serious safety risk. Listen and feel for these common symptoms:
- Clunking Noise: A loud "clunk" or "thud" when you shift into Drive or Reverse is a classic sign of a bad U-joint. This is caused by excessive play in the worn joint.
- Vibration While Driving: A vibration that you can feel through the floor or seats and gets worse as you speed up points to a failing U-joint. This happens because the worn joint throws the driveshaft out of balance.
- Squeaking or Chirping: A steady, repeating squeak that is most noticeable at low speeds often means the needle bearings inside the U-joint have lost their grease and are failing.
A Note on Recalls and Service Bulletins
Searches for official recalls and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) did not find any specific issues related to universal joints for the 1968-1976 Dodge Dart models. Recalls found for the "Dodge Dart" nameplate apply to the modern 2013-2016 version of the car.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket U-Joint
For a classic vehicle like the Dart, new original equipment (OEM) parts are typically no longer made. However, the aftermarket offers excellent, high-quality replacements. In fact, brands like Dana Spicer were often used by Chrysler for service replacements. Aftermarket U-joints can be grouped into quality tiers.
Brand Quality Tiers
- Premium / Heavy-Duty (Best): Dana Spicer is widely considered the top choice by Mopar enthusiasts for its durability and quality, often seen as equal to or better than the original parts. They offer both greasable and non-greasable (solid) versions. Solid joints are technically stronger, but greasable joints are an excellent choice for street-driven cars. Yukon Gear also offers parts in this category, often geared toward performance applications.
- Quality Aftermarket (Better): Moog and SKF are well-regarded brands that offer a reliable product for daily driving and restoration projects. They provide a good balance of quality and cost, with features like greasable fittings for easy maintenance.
- Standard / Value (Good): GMB is a known brand that provides a functional and affordable replacement part suitable for standard-use vehicles.
Crucial Ordering Mistake: Know Your U-Joint Size!
Chrysler used two primary U-joint sizes on these cars: the 7260 and the larger, stronger 7290. They are not interchangeable. The main differences are the width and the diameter of the bearing caps. Before ordering, you must measure the yoke on your driveshaft and differential to confirm which size you need. It's also possible for a car to have a combination of sizes, especially if parts have been swapped over the years.
| Brand Tier | Example Brands | Estimated Price (Per Joint) |
|---|---|---|
| Premium / Heavy-Duty | Dana Spicer, Yukon Gear | $50 - $108 |
| Quality Aftermarket | Moog, SKF | $30 - $60 |
| Standard / Value | GMB | $17 - $30 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many U-joints does my Dodge Dart have?
A standard 1968-1976 Dodge Dart has two universal joints on its rear driveshaft: one at the transmission end (front) and one at the differential end (rear).
Should I get a greasable or non-greasable U-joint?
For a street-driven car, a greasable U-joint is a great choice because periodic greasing flushes out old contaminants and can extend its life. Non-greasable (solid) joints are considered stronger because the main body isn't drilled for a grease channel, making them popular for high-horsepower or racing applications.
Can I replace the U-joints myself?
Yes, this is a common DIY job for those with mechanical experience. It requires safely lifting the vehicle, removing the driveshaft, and using a bench vise with sockets, a C-clamp press, or a hammer to carefully press the old joints out and the new ones in. If you are not comfortable with this, a repair shop can perform the service.
What does 7260 and 7290 mean for U-joints?
These are Mopar-specific U-joint series numbers that refer to their dimensions. The 7260 is the smaller of the two, while the 7290 is larger and more robust. You must verify which size your car is equipped with before buying parts, as they are not interchangeable without a special conversion joint.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 1752624 2298908 3004900 3780250 4364400 4384514 4720822
The most important specifications are the U-joint series, which will be either 7260 or 7290. The 7260 series uses a 1.078" cap diameter and fits a 2.125" wide yoke. The 7290 series uses a 1.126" cap diameter and fits a wider yoke. Both types use internal C-clips for retention.
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.