Cletrac.org

I recently replaced the clutch plate on my 1956 OC4.  While I had it apart, I also replaced both universals from Zimmerman.  After 15 or 20 hours of use I adjusted the clutch free play and noticed that the new universals are very loose. They can move about 1/8 to 3/16 of an inch  side to side.  The bushings themselves aren't too bad.  Has anyone ever replaced the stock universals and bushings with more a modern type with needle bearings that can be greased?  I'm a Machinist, so I can fabricate most anything.  They are so small, I have no idea what vehicle or machine parts to look for.

I had a similar problem with new universals on an OC-3, called Zimmerman's, since I bought the parts from them also.  They recommended installing O-rings to fill the gap between the caps and the cross, then it worked fine.

That would have been good to know before I installed them, but when I first put them in they weren't so loose.  They didnt look very durable when they were new, just bushings, with no way to grease them.  If I have to do them over again, Im going to retrofit something better. with needle bearings and regular closed end caps.  Thanks for the advice anyway.

Later ones did have Spicer joints with needle bearing crosses. I am out of town for about 8 to 10 days. Remind me of this when I come back. John.

There is no bearing joint to replace old Ford style joint . Late model OC3/OC4 came  with a shaft that used bearing style ujoints. The shafts are standard spline so a drive shaft shop could make one but since you need four yokes it is kind of expensive .
Walter