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Universal Joint: Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2012 Subaru Outback and 2012 Subaru Legacy. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Check for wear, damage or any other faults.

  1. Check the universal joint for excessive looseness.

    Service limit: 

    Universal joint play: 0 mm (0 in) 

    Fig 1: Checking Universal Joint Looseness
    G00525706Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  2. Measure the swing torque of universal joint.
    1. Place the universal joint between wooden blocks and fix it on a vise.
    2. With the yoke (a) of gearbox side facing up, measure the swing torque in two directions.
      Fig 2: Measuring Swing Torque Of Universal Joint (With Yoke Of Gearbox Side)
      G07914304Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.

      Service limit: 

      Maximum load: 3.8 N (0.39 kgf, 0.86 lbf) or less 

    3. With the yoke (b) of steering column side facing up, measure the swing torque in two directions.
      Fig 3: Measuring Swing Torque Of Universal Joint (With Yoke Of Steering Column)
      G07914305Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.

      Service limit: 

      Maximum load: 7.3 N (0.74 kgf, 1.64 lbf) or less 

    4. Replace as necessary, if it is found defective.