While lubricating a universal joint cross, grease is seen pushing past the trunnion seals on three of the four crosses. This indicates which of the following?

While lubricating a universal joint cross, grease is seen pushing past the trunnion seals on three of the four crosses. This indicates which of the following?

• A. All four crosses are receiving lubricant.
• B. Two bearings on the cross are not receiving lubricant.
• C. One bearing on the cross might not be receiving lubricant and should be removed for proper servicing.
• D. The cross is worn beyond service and should be discarded.

Answer: (C)

Grease showing through the trunnion seals on most of the cross indicates the seals aren’t containing lubricant properly and the lubrication path is compromised. In a four-bearing U-joint cross, that pattern points to a problem with one bearing that isn’t getting lubrication, likely due to worn or blocked passages or seals. The proper action is to remove the cross for servicing—inspect and replace seals, clean or replace the bearings as needed, and re-pack the joint so the lubricant can reach every bearing. This is a servicing issue, not a sign to discard the joint, and it isn’t evidence that all four bearings are being lubricated.

Grease showing through the trunnion seals on most of the cross indicates the seals aren’t containing lubricant properly and the lubrication path is compromised. In a four-bearing U-joint cross, that pattern points to a problem with one bearing that isn’t getting lubrication, likely due to worn or blocked passages or seals. The proper action is to remove the cross for servicing—inspect and replace seals, clean or replace the bearings as needed, and re-pack the joint so the lubricant can reach every bearing. This is a servicing issue, not a sign to discard the joint, and it isn’t evidence that all four bearings are being lubricated.