Parts for your 1998 Daihatsu Gran move-Universal joints

1998 Daihatsu Gran Move — Are Universal Joints Used?

For the 1998 Daihatsu Gran Move (also sold as the Pyzar), universal joints (driveline U-joints) aren’t used in the powertrain. Technical sources including the Daihatsu Pyzar/Gran Move Workshop Manual for the G30-series and the Daihatsu Electronic Parts Catalogue show a front‑wheel‑drive layout with no propeller shaft. The front drive uses halfshafts with constant velocity (CV) joints rather than Hooke-type universal joints. That layout removes the need for rear differentials and tailshafts where U-joints would typically live.

Why’s that? FWD packaging places the transaxle next to the engine and sends power to the front wheels via CV joints, which comfortably handle big steering and suspension angles while keeping wheel speed constant. U-joints are common on rear‑wheel‑drive and 4WD vehicles where a long propeller shaft connects the gearbox to a rear diff. Because the Gran Move is FWD, there’s simply no prop shaft to mount U-joints on.

Worth noting: there is a small universal joint in the steering column’s intermediate shaft. It’s there to transmit steering input through a slight angle, but it’s not the same as a driveline U-joint and isn’t part of the engine-to-wheel power delivery.

For owners chasing a driveline knock or vibration on a 1998 Gran Move, the usual suspects are the front CV joints, wheel bearings, or engine/gearbox mounts rather than U-joints. Grease-splattered inner guards or torn CV boots are a dead giveaway that a CV joint needs attention.

• What to service instead of U-joints:
  • Inspect front CV boots every service, replace torn boots promptly to save the joint.
  • Listen for clicking on full lock (outer CV) or shudder on take‑off (inner CV).
  • Check the steering column lower coupling for rust or stiffness, lubricate or replace if binding or loose.

Sources referenced: Daihatsu Pyzar/Gran Move Workshop Manual (G30-series), Daihatsu Electronic Parts Catalogue (1998 Gran Move), and standard drivetrain design guidance noting FWD transaxles use Rzeppa/Birfield CV joints rather than Hooke-type U-joints.

Does a 1998 Daihatsu Gran Move have driveline universal joints?

No. It’s front‑wheel drive with CV-jointed halfshafts and no propeller shaft, so there are no driveline U-joints fitted. Any clunks or vibrations are more likely related to CV joints, wheel bearings, or mounts.

What should be checked instead of U-joints during servicing?

Inspect front CV boots for splits, leaking grease, or perishing, repair or replace before the joint wears out. Check for clicking on full lock and for vibration on acceleration. Also have a quick look at the steering column universal coupling for play or stiffness.

Is there any universal joint on the Gran Move at all?

Yes, the steering column uses a small universal joint on the intermediate shaft. It’s separate from the driveline and usually maintenance-free, but it can seize or develop play with age, replace if it binds or knocks.