Chevrolet P20 Universal Joint Replacement Guide (1985-1989)
Hearing clunks or feeling vibrations in your 1985-1989 Chevrolet P20? It might be time for new U-joints.
- A clunking noise when shifting, vibrations, or squeaking are key signs of a failing U-joint on your P20.
- Do not drive with a bad U-joint; complete failure can cause the driveshaft to detach, leading to a loss of control.
- For a heavy-duty vehicle like the P20, Dana Spicer is the top-tier brand for durability and longevity.
- Replacing all U-joints on the driveshaft at the same time is recommended for preventative maintenance.
Signs of a Failing Universal Joint
A worn-out U-joint on your P20 will give you clear warning signs. Ignoring them can lead to the driveshaft breaking free, which is extremely dangerous and can cause major damage. Listen and feel for these symptoms:
- Loud Clunking Noise: A common sign is a loud "clunk" or "bang" when you shift from Park into Drive or Reverse. This is caused by excessive play in the worn joint.
- Vibrations While Driving: You might feel a vibration throughout the vehicle that gets worse as you speed up. This happens when the failing U-joint throws the driveshaft out of balance.
- Squeaking Sounds: A rhythmic squeaking that matches your speed, especially at lower speeds, often means the U-joint has lost its grease and is running dry.
- Visible Rust or Grease: Look under your truck at the driveshaft. If you see rust-colored dust or grease splattered around the U-joint's bearing caps, the seals have failed.
Critical Failure Warning
If a U-joint fails completely, the driveshaft can detach from the vehicle while you are driving. This can cause you to lose control, lose all power to the wheels, and result in severe damage to other parts of your truck's underbody. Do not ignore the symptoms of a bad U-joint.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket U-Joint
For a heavy-duty vehicle like the Chevrolet P20, choosing a quality replacement U-joint is essential for reliability and safety. Original GM parts for this van are likely discontinued. However, high-quality aftermarket brands are available that meet or exceed original specifications.
Brand Quality Tiers for Your P20
Not all aftermarket parts are created equal. Here’s a breakdown of available brands, from best to standard quality, based on real-world feedback for heavy-duty trucks.
- Premium (OEM or Better): Dana Spicer
Dana is an original equipment (OE) manufacturer for many truck brands, and their Spicer brand is widely considered the best in the business for driveline parts. For a workhorse like the P20, a Spicer U-joint provides the highest level of durability and reliability. They are often available in non-greasable versions, which feature stronger seals and are preferred by many professionals for their long, maintenance-free life. - High-Quality Aftermarket: Moog, SKF
Moog is a well-known premium aftermarket brand with a reputation for strong, durable parts. SKF is another excellent choice, known for its expertise in high-quality bearings, which are the core of any U-joint. Both brands are a solid choice for your P20 and offer a good balance of performance and price. - Standard Replacement: GMB
GMB offers reliable replacement parts that meet basic requirements. These are a good option if you are on a tighter budget, but for a heavy-duty commercial vehicle, investing in a premium or high-quality brand is often recommended for longer service life.
Pro-Tip: Greasable vs. Non-Greasable
You will see options for both greasable (with a zerk fitting) and non-greasable (sealed) U-joints. While greasable joints sound better, many experts prefer high-quality non-greasable joints like those from Spicer. The seals on non-greasable joints are typically stronger and better at keeping contaminants out. Greasable joints require regular maintenance; if you forget to grease them, they can fail faster than their sealed counterparts.
Estimated Costs
The cost for a new aftermarket U-joint for a 1985-1989 P20 can vary based on the brand and whether you are buying a single joint or a kit.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket U-Joint | $20 - $80 (per joint) |
| Shop Labor for Replacement | $150 - $350 (for one or two joints) |
Note: Labor costs can vary significantly by region and shop. Your P20 may have two or more U-joints. It is often recommended to replace them in pairs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many U-joints does my Chevrolet P20 have?
Most rear-wheel-drive trucks like the P20 have at least two U-joints on the main driveshaft: one at the transmission end and one at the rear differential. Depending on the wheelbase and if it has a two-piece driveshaft, it could have a third U-joint and a center support bearing.
Can I replace a U-joint myself?
Yes, this is possible for an experienced DIY mechanic. However, it requires specific tools, including a heavy-duty jack and stands, a socket set, and either a bench vise with large sockets or a dedicated U-joint press tool to remove the old joint and install the new one without damaging the driveshaft yoke. If you are not comfortable with this, it is best to have a professional do the work.
Are there any recalls for the 1985-1989 Chevrolet P20 U-joints?
There are no active recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from the NHTSA related to the universal joints or driveshafts for the 1985-1989 Chevrolet P20. Any failures are typically due to age, high mileage, and wear.
Should I replace all the U-joints at once?
If one U-joint has failed due to age and mileage, the others are likely near the end of their service life as well. Since the driveshaft has to be removed for the repair, it is cost-effective and good preventative maintenance to replace all the U-joints on that shaft at the same time.
Technical Specifications
U-joints for the P20 are external snap ring style. The specific size (e.g., 1310, 1330, 1350 series) depends on the exact drivetrain configuration of your van. It is critical to measure your existing U-joints or match them by part number to ensure you order the correct replacement.
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.
- Chevrolet P20: