U-Joint

This procedure covers the removal, inspection, and replacement of universal joints (U-joints) in the driveshaft of a 2005 Dodge Viper with the 8.3L V10 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• U-joint (driveshaft) × 1 — Use OEM specification or Spicer 5-760X equivalent
• U-joint straps (if reusing is not recommended) × 2 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake.
2. Raise rear of vehicle and support securely on jack stands positioned under the rear axle or frame rails.
3. Ensure adequate working clearance underneath the vehicle.

Procedure

1. 1

   Mark driveshaft alignment
   Using a center punch or permanent marker, mark the relationship between the driveshaft and the rear differential yoke, and between the driveshaft sections if applicable. Make clear alignment marks on both flanges at each joint to ensure proper phasing during reassembly. The 2005 Viper uses a single-piece driveshaft; mark the relationship at both the transmission/front connection and the rear differential connection.
2. 2

   Remove rear driveshaft U-joint straps
   Locate the rear driveshaft fasteners at the differential yoke/flange. Remove the fasteners securing the driveshaft to the differential yoke. Verify the exact fastener type and count against manufacturer documentation. Support the rear of the driveshaft by hand or with a strap to prevent it from dropping when the last fastener is removed.
3. 3

   Separate rear U-joint from differential
   Carefully pry or pull the driveshaft rearward to separate the U-joint caps from the differential yoke. The U-joint caps should slide out of the yoke bores. If stuck, tap gently with a dead blow hammer while supporting the driveshaft. Be careful not to allow the bearing caps to fall off and spill needle bearings.
4. 4

   Remove center support bearing
   This step does not apply. The 2005 Viper uses a single-piece driveshaft with no center support bearing; proceed directly to the front (transmission) connection.
5. 5

   Remove front driveshaft connection
   At the transmission end, remove the fasteners connecting the driveshaft to the transmission output yoke/flange. Verify the exact fastener type and count against manufacturer documentation. Once fasteners are removed, carefully separate the joint and lower the driveshaft assembly from the vehicle. Watch for any shims or spacers that may be present.
6. 6

   Secure driveshaft and identify failed U-joint
   Place the driveshaft assembly on a clean workbench. Inspect each U-joint for play, roughness, rust, or binding by attempting to rotate each joint by hand. Identify which U-joint(s) require replacement. Check for loose bearing caps, visible wear, or damage to the yoke ears.
7. 7

   Remove U-joint retaining clips
   Using snap ring pliers or a small flathead screwdriver, remove the internal or external retaining clips (C-clips or snap rings) that secure the U-joint bearing caps in the yoke. There are typically 4 clips per U-joint (one per bearing cap). Note the clip orientation and type for reassembly.
8. 8

   Press out old U-joint
   Using a U-joint press or bench vise with appropriate sockets, press one bearing cap out of the yoke by applying pressure to the opposite cap. The cross will move through the yoke, pushing one cap out. Remove the cap, then reposition and press from the other side to remove the cross and remaining caps. Repeat for all four caps until the U-joint cross is free. Clean the yoke bores thoroughly, removing any burrs, rust, or debris with emery cloth or a wire brush.
9. 9

   Prepare new U-joint
   Unpack the new U-joint and verify it matches the old unit in size and configuration. Most replacement U-joints come with bearing caps pre-installed or loosely positioned. If bearing caps are separate, ensure needle bearings are properly greased and retained inside each cap. Do not remove the bearing cap retaining straps or tape until ready to install.
10. 10

    Install new U-joint
    Position one bearing cap partially into one yoke ear. Insert the U-joint cross into the yoke from the opposite side, aligning the cross trunnion with the installed bearing cap. Press or tap the bearing cap into place until it is flush and the retaining clip groove is visible. Install the retaining clip. Rotate the assembly and install the opposite bearing cap using the same method, ensuring the cross moves freely without binding. Repeat for the remaining two bearing caps. Verify the U-joint articulates smoothly in all directions without binding or excessive play.
11. 11

    Install driveshaft assembly to transmission
    Raise the driveshaft assembly into position under the vehicle. Align the front U-joint or CV joint with the transmission output yoke, matching the alignment marks made during disassembly. Install the U-joint straps or CV joint bolts finger-tight, ensuring the U-joint bearing caps are properly seated in the yoke. Torque fasteners to specification.
    Torque spec

    CV Bolts61 Nm (45 lb-ft)

    Driveshaft U-Joint Straps20 Nm (15 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Install center support bearing
    This step does not apply. The 2005 Viper uses a single-piece driveshaft with no center support bearing to reinstall.
13. 13

    Connect rear driveshaft to differential
    Align the rear U-joint with the differential yoke, matching the alignment marks made during disassembly. Insert the U-joint bearing caps into the yoke bores, ensuring proper seating. Position the U-joint straps over the bearing caps and install the fasteners finger-tight. Verify alignment, then torque the strap fasteners evenly in a cross pattern to specification.
    Torque spec

    Driveshaft U-Joint Straps20 Nm (15 lb-ft)
14. 14

    Verify installation and rotate driveshaft
    Rotate the driveshaft by hand through several complete revolutions, checking for binding, roughness, or interference with surrounding components. Verify all fasteners are properly torqued and all U-joints articulate smoothly. Check that alignment marks are properly matched at all connection points.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all alignment marks are properly matched to maintain driveshaft balance and phasing.
2. Torque all fasteners to specification in the sequence described.
3. Double-check that all U-joint retaining clips are properly seated in their grooves.
4. Verify the center support bearing is not preloaded and rotates freely.

Verification

• Lower vehicle from jack stands and perform a short test drive at low speed (15-25 mph) on a safe, level road.
• Listen and feel for vibrations, clunking, or binding that would indicate improper installation or phasing.
• If vibration is present, re-verify all alignment marks and fastener torque values.
• Perform a final inspection of all connections after the test drive to ensure no fasteners have loosened.

More procedures for this vehicle