[user151]

I have a Chevy bell joint, with the DD slip shaft to a rag joint (see pix). The bell joint splined end will attach to my steering shaft, and I can attach the end of the slip joint to the steering box (after removing the rag joint connector).
So I would be using the bell joint as a U joint. Any problems with this application?
(If it is not appropriate I'll just but a U joint from Speedway.)

[powerrodsmike]

Buy the u joint, or use a rag joint to couple the dd end to your steering box. It needs the flexibility.

later, mikey

[user151]

Adding the rag joint is no problem... but can I use the bell joint like - or at the same angles as - a U joint?

[powerrodsmike]

I'm not sure you can run one at the 30 plus degrees that a u joint will run at, usually those bell joints are set up at fairly low angles.
I would think that you could push the bell and shaft together all the way, and see where it binds, then run it at a lesser angle than where it binds and you should be ok. I'd be concerned with the teflon balls falling out of the slots at high angles.

I never tried to use one in a high angle, what will your operating angle be?

Later, mikey

[user151]

I think you are right about low angle from what I have seen on the Chevys in the local junk yard here... I haven't set it up yet but if it's a significant angle I'll go with a real U joint.

[Dale T.]

I go to the junk yards and grab a hand full of intermediate steering shafts from front wheel drive cars. These will come with 1 or 2 U-Joints in them and some have rag joints and double D slip joints on them. These come in very handy when connecting steering columns. I have even split the the 2 halves and mixed and matched the pieces.