How often to replace U-joints?

[cvar]

How often do y'all replace U-joints in your axle-shafts and drive-shafts? If ever? Is that a regular maintenance item, or done only (if and) when they seize? How do you know when they're going kaput?

By luck, I discovered the U-joint on my LF axle-shaft did seize. Are the others destined to follow? Or not?

When replacing, do you recommend U-joints having grease nipple, or not?

 

[shane96ranger]

I only do them if they are bad for the driveshafts. HOWEVER, if you are talking about for the front end, I'd replace those if they were bad, or if I was torn into it a ways.

Just my

 

[5speedin2.3]

If you grab the driveshaft/axle shaft and the joint has play in it, they are due for replacement. Also, look for rust around the area where the cap meets the joint.
Normally they will start making noise before they get to that point.

They don't really have a "life span". It really depends on how you drive and the climate.

Some people will tell you greaseable is better, others will say non greaseable is better.
The greaseable joints will wear faster if you don't keep fresh grease in the joint. I grease mine every time I change my oil. (7000 miles).