A Guide to Universal Joint Replacement for the 1987-1989 Dodge Raider
Address the clunks and vibrations in your Raider by understanding and choosing the right replacement U-joints.
- The most common signs of failure are clunking when shifting, vibrations at speed, and squeaking noises.
- For maximum durability and a maintenance-free solution, choose a non-greasable U-joint from a top-tier brand like Dana Spicer or SKF.
- The Dodge Raider is a rebadged Mitsubishi Montero; you may need to cross-reference parts with the Montero to ensure you get the correct U-joint.
- Do not drive with a severely vibrating or noisy U-joint, as a complete failure can cause the driveshaft to detach and lead to a serious accident.
Is Your Raider's U-Joint Failing?
A worn-out universal joint gives clear warning signs. Because these parts are under constant stress, they wear out from mileage, heavy use, or a lack of grease. Ignoring a bad U-joint can lead to worse vibrations, damage to other parts, and in a worst-case scenario, the driveshaft could separate from the vehicle, which is extremely dangerous. Listen and feel for these common symptoms:
- Clunking Noise: A distinct "clunk" or "ping" when you shift from park into drive or reverse is a classic sign of a worn U-joint with too much play.
- Vibrations at Speed: You may feel a vibration throughout the truck that gets worse as your speed increases. This happens when the worn joint throws the driveshaft out of balance.
- Squeaking or Chirping: A rhythmic squeak that changes with your speed, often heard when driving slowly, means the U-joint has lost its grease and is failing.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket U-Joint
Since original OEM parts for a vehicle of this age are scarce, the aftermarket is your primary source. The brands available offer a range of quality and price points. The choice often comes down to brand reputation and whether you prefer a greasable or sealed joint.
Important Note on Part Fitment
The Dodge Raider is a rebadged Mitsubishi Montero. Owners have reported that it can be difficult to get the correct aftermarket U-joint for this specific truck. To avoid ordering the wrong part, it is highly recommended to measure your old U-joints (cap diameter and overall width) or cross-reference the part you are buying with the Mitsubishi OEM part number MR196838 before ordering.
Brand Quality Tiers
Top Tier (OEM Quality or Better):
- Dana Spicer: Widely considered the gold standard for U-joints. Many professionals and enthusiasts use them exclusively. Their non-greasable "Spicer Life Series" joints are known for being extremely strong and long-lasting, often exceeding 100,000 miles.
- SKF: A major bearing manufacturer known for high-quality parts. Their heavy-duty or "Brute Force" line is a strong choice for durability.
Professional Grade (Reliable Replacement):
- Moog: A well-known aftermarket brand that offers quality parts, though some users report inconsistent quality in recent years. They are generally a safe and reliable choice that meets or exceeds original specifications.
- GMB: A Japanese manufacturer known for producing good quality, reliable parts that are often a great balance of price and performance.
Greasable vs. Sealed U-Joints
You will see options for both greasable (with a zerk fitting) and non-greasable (sealed) U-joints. Original factory joints are typically sealed. Sealed joints from a top brand like Dana Spicer are generally stronger because the cross is solid metal, not drilled out for a grease channel. They are maintenance-free and often last longer. Greasable joints can also be very durable, but only if you are diligent about greasing them regularly. If neglected, they can fail faster than sealed joints.
Estimated Costs for Universal Joint Replacement
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Aftermarket Universal Joint (1) | $16.08 - $100.83 |
| Shop Labor (per joint) | $110 - $224 |
| Total Professional Replacement (1 joint) | $270 - $409 |
Note: Your Raider has multiple U-joints. It is common practice to replace them in pairs on the same driveshaft for balanced performance. Costs can vary based on your location and the specific condition of your vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many U-joints does my 1987-1989 Dodge Raider have?
As a 4WD vehicle, your Raider has several U-joints. There is one at each end of the rear driveshaft and one at each end of the front driveshaft. You may need to inspect all of them to find the one that has failed.
Should I get greasable or sealed U-joints?
For most owners, a high-quality sealed (non-greasable) U-joint from a brand like Dana Spicer offers the best combination of strength and maintenance-free reliability. If you use your Raider for heavy off-roading and are committed to regular maintenance, a greasable joint can also be a good choice.
Can I replace just one bad U-joint?
Yes, but it is highly recommended to replace both U-joints on the same driveshaft at the same time. This ensures the driveshaft remains properly balanced and prevents you from having to do the same job again in the near future if the other old joint fails.
What happens if a U-joint fails completely?
A complete failure is dangerous. The U-joint can break apart, causing the driveshaft to disconnect from the transmission or axle. This will result in a total loss of power. The loose driveshaft can then spin violently, causing catastrophic damage to your transmission, exhaust, fuel lines, and the underbody of your truck.
Were there any recalls for Dodge Raider U-joints?
No. Searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database show no recalls or common defect investigations for universal joints on the 1987-1989 Dodge Raider.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: MR196838
The 1987-1989 Dodge Raider uses multiple universal joints in its front and rear driveshafts. Due to vehicle variations and potential modifications over the years, it is critical to measure the cap diameter and overall width of your existing U-joints before ordering a 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.
- Dodge Raider: