Spicer Life Series (SPL) Plus; High Temperature Design; Non-Greasable
Spicer is always working to incorporate the latest advancements in u-joint material and design, so they can deliver reliable products for customers who demand the best. Global manufacturers already recognize SPL® u-joints as a benchmark in quality. They took this trusted OE product and enhanced the grease, then improved the seal, spacer, and seal guard materials, to create u-joints with unrivaled performance and longevity: Spicer Life Series Plus u-joints.
Exhaust systems on today’s vehicles are often placed closer to the driveline, creating greater stress on driveline components due to greater temperature fluctuations. SPL® Plus u-joints offer increased maximum temperature capabilities to provide improved bearing life and overall durability.
Features & Benefits:
Journal cross engineered with a cold-formed body to ensure better wear and overall strength
The red Spicer Life Series ultra-premium grease is replaced with upgraded green synthetic grease, which significantly improved minimum and maximum temperature capabilities and increases bearing life
Bearing cups are heat-treated for strength and precision-ground and case-hardened for durability
Multi-lip seal with enhanced seal and seal guard material keeps grease in and contaminants out, offering maximum retention in a wider range of environment
Thrust washer eliminates friction and end galling, as well as metal-to-metal contact
Which Universal Joint Is Right For You?
Drive Conditions
Type
Normal City / Highway
Dirty / Dusty
Extreme Weather
Heavy Towing
Off-Road / Racing
Economy
Standard Replacement
Heavy Duty
Greasable vs. Non-Greasable
While non-greasable universal joints were once considered an upgrade over greasable universal joints, the differences in strength and durability are negligible today. Advancements in technology mean either option is a great choice, but there are some key pros and cons to consider:
NON-GREASABLE
Pros: Non-Greasable U-Joints do not need to be serviced regularly. After installation, these U-Joints require little upkeep and primarily need to be monitored for signs of failure.
Cons: Since these U-Joints cannot be re-greased, the entire U-Joint must be replaced at the first sign of wear / noise as to not risk failure.
GREASABLE
Pros: Greasable U-Joints are serviceable and contaminants can be flushed out easily. Regular maintenance and greasing also means you'll be more in tune with the wear status of the joints.
Cons: These U-Joints need to be checked and greased regularly. If this sounds unfavorable or if you're forgetful, non-greasable may be a better choice.
Preventative Maintenance Tips
The key to maximizing the performance and durability of any universal joint - as well as related parts such as drive shafts - is preventative maintenance. Universal joints are designed to last the life of the vehicle, but can wear down or break if neglected or overloaded. Follow these tips to avoid premature failure of your vehicle's drivetrain:
If a greasable universal joint is installed, periodically check them to ensure they are properly greased (at the very least, at every oil change).
Inspect the yokes that hold your universal joints for cracks, stress marks, or worn or damaged seal mating surfaces, and replace them if any of these are present.
Check your seals for signs of leakage, and replace them if leaks are present.
Periodically check for drive shaft play, which is an indication that a universal joint or seal has failed and needs to be replaced.
Inspect drive shafts for cracks, stress marks, dents, or bends, and replace them if any of these are present.
Which Universal Joint Is Right For You?
Greasable vs. Non-Greasable
Preventative Maintenance Tips