A Comprehensive Guide to Universal Joints for the 1970-1974 Buick Skylark
Don't let a bad U-joint sideline your classic Skylark; understand your replacement options.
- Listen for clunking when shifting gears and feel for vibrations at highway speeds, as these are the most common signs of U-joint failure.
- For this classic vehicle, Dana Spicer is the top-tier choice for durability and originality, while Moog and SKF offer good quality for regular use.
- Before ordering, you must confirm if your driveshaft uses U-joints with internal c-clips or external clips, as both were used on these models.
- While DIY replacement is possible, it often requires a bench vise or hydraulic press, making professional installation a good option for many owners.
Is Your Skylark Making New Noises? It Might Be the U-Joints.
A failing universal joint will give you clear warning signs. Because these parts are under constant stress, they wear out over time. The needle bearings inside lose their lubrication and start to wear down the metal, creating excess play in your driveline. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to the driveshaft separating from the car, which is a critical failure that can cause significant damage.
Most Common Symptoms of Failure:
- Clunking or Banging Noise: A loud clunk when you shift from park into drive or reverse is a classic sign. This is caused by the slack in the worn-out joint. You might also hear it when you accelerate or decelerate quickly.
- Vibrations at Speed: A vibration that you can feel through the floor or seats is another common symptom. This vibration often gets worse as you increase your speed because the unbalanced driveshaft is spinning faster.
- Squeaking or Chirping: A rhythmic squeaking that matches your speed, especially at lower speeds, points to a dry, failing U-joint. The noise comes from metal-on-metal contact as the internal bearings have run out of grease.
- Visible Rust or Wear: If you look under the car, you might see rust-colored dust around the U-joint caps. This is a sign that the seals have failed and the needle bearings inside are turning to dust.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket U-Joint for Your Skylark
For a vehicle from the 1970s, new OEM parts from GM are generally not available. The aftermarket is your primary source, offering a wide range of quality and price. The brands are generally divided into tiers based on quality, durability, and intended use.
Aftermarket Brand Tiers
| Tier | Brands | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premium | Dana Spicer, Yukon Gear | Restorations, high-performance builds, and owners who want maximum reliability. | Dana Spicer is widely considered the gold standard and was an original supplier to GM. They offer strong, durable joints in both greaseable and non-greaseable styles. Yukon Gear is known for heavy-duty and performance parts, offering superior strength for modified cars. |
| Mid-Grade | Moog, SKF | Daily drivers and regular use where reliability is important but costs are a factor. | Moog has a long-standing reputation, though some enthusiasts feel recent quality isn't what it once was. They are still a solid choice and often feature grease fittings for easy maintenance. SKF is another reputable brand known for quality bearings and driveline components. |
| Economy | GMB | Budget-conscious repairs where the primary goal is to get the car back on the road. | GMB is a Japanese manufacturer that offers a cost-effective option. While some find their quality to be good for the price, others have reported issues, suggesting they may not be as durable as premium brands. |
Greaseable vs. Non-Greaseable (Sealed) U-Joints
This is a common debate. Non-greaseable (sealed) joints are what your car likely had from the factory. They are strong and require no maintenance, but when the grease inside dries up, they must be replaced. Greaseable joints have a zerk fitting that allows you to add fresh grease periodically. This can extend their life, but they MUST be serviced regularly. The hole for the grease fitting can also be a slight structural weak point compared to a solid, sealed joint. For most classic car owners, a high-quality sealed joint from a brand like Spicer is a great 'install and forget' option.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many U-joints does my 1970-1974 Skylark have?
Your Skylark's rear driveshaft typically has two universal joints: one at the transmission end (front) and one at the differential end (rear).
Can I replace the U-joints myself?
This job is possible for a skilled DIY mechanic, but it can be difficult without the right tools. Removing the old joints often requires a hydraulic press or a large bench vise with specific sockets to press the caps out without damaging the driveshaft yoke. If the original joints were retained with injected nylon, they must be heated with a torch to melt the plastic before they can be pressed out. If you are not comfortable with this, a professional shop can do it relatively quickly.
What is the most common mistake when ordering U-joints?
The most common mistake is ordering a part with the wrong cap style. GM A-body cars like the Skylark used U-joints with both external clips (that snap onto the outside of the yoke) and internal clips (or 'c-clips', that sit in a groove on the inside). You must verify which style your driveshaft uses before ordering. It is best to physically inspect your current driveshaft to be sure.
Are there any recalls for my Skylark's U-joints?
Searches of the NHTSA database did not show any specific recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) for universal joints on the 1970-1974 Buick Skylark. Any issues with these parts are due to normal wear and tear over the last 50+ years.
Technical Specifications
The 1970-1974 Buick Skylark, as a GM A-body platform, can use several U-joint sizes and styles. Common series include 1310 and Saginaw 3R (or S44). The most critical specification to verify before purchase is the retention method: internal C-clips or external snap rings. Measuring the cap diameter and the span across the joint is the most accurate way to ensure you order the correct part.
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.