Title: Dana 44 U-joint upgrade
Weak Link: Factory Sealed Universal Joints
Models Affected: ’94-’01 Dodge Rams
What happens: Over time and use, the u-joint can start to make noise (creaking, grinding). However if you have the original u-joints in your truck, you will find there is no grease fitting. Usually the internal needles (bearings) in the caps will dry up from a lack of grease.
If you let the u-joints creak and grind long enough they can and will go out and take other parts with them...such as expensive axleshafts and expensive wheel bearings (hub assemblies).
Strong Fix: The strong fix is rather simple, a new universal joint with a grease fitting. This way you can grease the u-joint yourself, which will help it last longer.
Contact: http://www.autozone.comAuto Zone handles Neapco U-joints. They are an American universal joint that is grease-able.
Precision also makes a good grease-able u-joint:
http://www.federal-mogul.com/cda/content/front/0,2194,2442_7709,00.html