Lincoln Mark V Universal Joint: A Guide for the 1977-1979 Models
Addressing the common clunks and vibrations in your classic 1977-1979 Lincoln Mark V starts with the U-joints.
- A clunk when shifting into gear or a vibration that increases with speed are the most common signs of a failing U-joint on your Mark V.
- Do not ignore these symptoms; a complete failure can cause the driveshaft to fall, leading to a loss of control and expensive damage.
- Plan to replace both U-joints at the same time for a reliable, long-lasting repair.
- Choose a high-quality aftermarket brand like Dana Spicer for the best results, as original Ford parts are no longer available.
Is Your Lincoln Mark V Making a Clunking Noise?
A failing universal joint (U-joint) on your 1977, 1978, or 1979 Lincoln Mark V will make its presence known. These cars are heavy, and their driveline components are under a lot of stress. The most common sign of a bad U-joint is a distinct 'clunk' or 'bang' when you shift the transmission from Park into Drive or Reverse. This sound is caused by excessive play in a worn-out joint. You may also notice a squeaking or chirping noise that gets faster as you drive, which often points to a U-joint that has lost its internal lubrication.
Symptoms of a Failing U-Joint
- Clunking Noise When Shifting: A loud clunk when putting the car in gear is a classic symptom of a worn U-joint.
- Vibration While Driving: A vibration that you can feel through the floor of the car and that increases with speed is another common sign. This is often confused with a tire imbalance, but a U-joint vibration may change or disappear when you let off the accelerator.
- Squeaking or Chirping: A rhythmic squeak, like a bird chirping, that matches the rotation of your wheels at low speeds usually means the needle bearings inside the U-joint are dry.
- Visible Rust or Grease: If you look under the car at the driveshaft, you might see rust-colored dust or dark grease streaks around the U-joint caps. This indicates the seals have failed.
A Critical Failure
If a U-joint fails completely while driving, the driveshaft can detach from the car. This will cause an immediate loss of power and can lead to significant damage to the underside of your vehicle, including the transmission, exhaust, and floor pan. It is a serious safety risk. At the first sign of a bad U-joint, you should have it inspected and replaced.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket U-Joint for Your Mark V
Finding a new-old-stock (NOS) or original equipment (OEM) Ford U-joint for a vehicle of this age is highly unlikely. Fortunately, the aftermarket provides several excellent options that meet or exceed the original quality. For your Lincoln Mark V, you will typically need two U-joints for the main driveshaft. It is highly recommended to replace both at the same time, as wear on one often puts extra stress on the other.
Brand Quality Tiers
- Premium (Best Quality): Dana Spicer
Spicer is the original equipment manufacturer for many brands and is widely considered the gold standard for U-joints. Their parts are known for durability and precise manufacturing. For a heavy car like the Mark V, a high-quality Spicer U-joint, especially their non-greasable "Spicer Life Series," is the top choice for longevity and performance. - Good Quality: Moog & SKF
Moog has a long-standing reputation for being a "problem solver" brand with strong, durable parts. While some online forums suggest their quality has become less consistent recently, they are still a very popular and generally reliable choice. SKF is another well-respected brand that produces quality bearings and driveline components, often considered a solid alternative to Spicer. - Standard / Economy: GMB
GMB is a well-known aftermarket brand that offers a good balance of quality and value. These are reliable, standard-grade replacement parts that meet original specifications and are a good choice for owners on a tighter budget.
Greasable vs. Non-Greasable U-Joints
You will find both greasable (with a zerk fitting for adding grease) and non-greasable (sealed) U-joints. Non-greasable joints, like the Spicer Life Series, are often considered stronger because the cross is solid steel. Greasable joints can last a very long time but require periodic maintenance (greasing every oil change) to do so. For a classic car that may not be driven daily, a high-quality sealed joint is often the simpler, more robust choice.
Estimated Costs for Universal Joint Replacement
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Aftermarket U-Joint (Single) | $20 - $55 |
| Shop Labor (Pair) | $150 - $300 |
| Total for Two U-Joints (Parts & Labor) | $190 - $410 |
Note: Costs are estimates and can vary based on your location, the specific parts chosen, and your mechanic's labor rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many U-joints does a 1977-1979 Lincoln Mark V have?
The main driveshaft on a standard Mark V has two universal joints—one at the transmission end and one at the rear axle. It is best practice to replace them as a pair.
Are there any recalls or TSBs for the Mark V U-joints?
No. Searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database show no recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) specifically related to the universal joints on the 1977-1979 Lincoln Mark V.
Can I replace a U-joint myself?
Yes, this is a DIY-feasible job for someone with mechanical experience, but it can be challenging. The driveshaft must be removed from the car. Removing the old U-joints from the driveshaft yokes requires a large vise, a hammer, and sockets of the correct size, or a specialized U-joint press. If you are not comfortable with this process, it is a straightforward job for any auto repair shop.
What is the most common mistake when ordering?
The most common mistake is not buying two. If one U-joint has failed due to age and mileage, the other is likely not far behind. Replacing both at the same time saves you from having to do the job again in the near future and ensures a smooth, balanced driveline.
Technical Specifications
The 1977-1979 Lincoln Mark V uses a rear-wheel-drive configuration with a one-piece driveshaft that has two universal joints, one at the transmission and one at the differential. These are typically an outside snap ring design.
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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.
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Lincoln Mark V Making a Clunking Noise?
- Symptoms of a Failing U-Joint
- A Critical Failure
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket U-Joint for Your Mark V
- Brand Quality Tiers
- Greasable vs. Non-Greasable U-Joints
- Estimated Costs for Universal Joint Replacement
- Frequently Asked Questions
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