Packing knuckle joints

[sermis]

Question on packing the knuckle joints?
On the older style ball knuckle joints I see the need to pack them in grease but on the new “U” joint style is there really a need to pack them in grease. I can’t see the grease getting into the “U” joint from being packed. The grease might help keep the dirt and water out for a bit if the boot was torn but not long.

 

[ken]

No not at all. Mine have a plug in the center of the cross where i put in a zerk fitting and can grease the u-joints. Your right though. There is no way grease is going to get in there.

 

[randyscycle]

The main thing that needs grease in there is the rear thrust washer on the axle where it runs against the inner seal holder and the spindle bushing inside the spindle. Both of those get serviced by the knuckle grease.

The kingpins are serviced of course by the grease fitting on top and bottom.

 

[m16ty]

Here's a thread I started about this very subject when I was replacing my boots.
http://www.steelsoldiers.com/index....e=viewtopic&t=20429&highlight=steering+nuckle

Bottom line is, some say do it and some say don't. I packed mine just to be on the safe side.