Mopar part # 55351244AA

Mopar
http://www.fallsmoparcity.com/oe-mopar/55351244aa



Dorman
http://shop.advanceautoparts.com/p/d...269/10712546-P
"Re-engineered by us to correct weaknesses in the original design, our Steering Shaft eliminates clunking or binding in the steering column. Replacement restores"



Guys, can anyone tell me what the issue is with these lower u-joint failures?


Can I replace just the u-joint vs the whole lower shaft? Also, I see the Mopar part out there for sale and it's the whole lower shaft but then I see the other versions like Dorman, which claims it's a new upgraded shaft. Supposedly with a design that corrects the OEM's issue. Did mopar ever correct the problem and if so, what is the upgraded part number?


I don't like the crackle and pop, but I'm more afraid of the snap.


Thx

 

Well I have never dealt with this problem no rust in AZ even in CA when I lived their but I would get the upgrade part I don’t think OEM made an upgrade replacement. I don’t think you can only get just the end U-joints as a separate part. This problem I think is more a rust belt problem as my (ORIGINAL) are in perfect condition zero rust.


I will say in CA where I lived it rained heavy for up to a month at a time almost non stop and I was very close to the beach but no road salt.

 

Thx. It's not just a rust issue because GA has no rust either. My shaft doesn't look rusted but it's had a slight pop from the day I got it. Aside from the pop, it drives great, very little play.

 

Ok Now I understand my Dak has had that same odd POP sound most of its life I dont let it bother me I dont know what is causing it but I dont think its a problem.

 

IDK if they are just trying to sell you something; the TSB says to just re-leave the pressure on the shaft and let it naturally align it self to resolve the pop sound..