Parts for your 2016 Ford Territory-Universal joints

2016 Ford Territory universal joints — are they used, and what to service instead

Short answer: universal joints aren’t used on the 2016 Ford Territory tailshaft/prop shafts. Ford engineered the SZ/SZ MkII Territory driveline with constant velocity (CV) joints, a rubber flex coupling (often called a guibo) and a centre bearing, rather than traditional cross-type uni joints. This setup is documented in the Ford Territory SZ Workshop Manual (Driveline/Propeller Shaft sections) and echoed by driveline specialists’ catalogues from Hardy Spicer and Driveline Services Australia, which list CV joint, flex-coupling and centre-bearing kits for Falcon/Territory assemblies and do not list serviceable universal joints for the SZ Territory.

Why no universal joints? Territory uses independent rear suspension and, in many models, AWD packaging. CV joints and a flex coupling give smoother torque delivery, better NVH (less shudder and boom), and handle greater operating angles under load. They’re also largely maintenance-free compared with greaseable uni joints. On RWD Territory variants, the two-piece tailshaft typically runs a front flex coupling, centre support bearing and a rear CV at the diff. On AWD variants, the front prop shaft and rear shaft are CV-based assemblies as well.

What to look after instead of uni joints:

• Flex coupling (guibo): Check for cracks, delamination or missing fabric cords. Perishing here often shows up as a thud on take-off or a driveline shudder.
• Centre bearing: Listen for droning/humming that changes with road speed, inspect the rubber carrier for tears and excessive play.
• CV joints at the tailshaft/prop shafts: Check for free play, notchiness or clunks when shifting from drive to reverse, and for any grease leakage from joint caps.

If any of these components are worn, most workshops will replace the affected part (flex disc, centre bearing, CV joint) or the complete shaft if there’s excessive wear or balance issues. It’s smart to mark shaft orientation, use new bolts/nuts where specified, and torque to Ford specs to avoid vibrations. After refit, a quick road test for shudder under load or on overrun will confirm it’s happy days.

So, while people might go hunting for “Territory universal joints”, what they’ll actually need for a 2016 model is attention on the CV joints, flex coupling and centre bearing — the real heroes keeping the Territory smooth and quiet.

Popular questions about 2016 Ford Territory universal joints

Does a 2016 Ford Territory have universal joints?
No. The SZ/SZ MkII Territory uses CV joints and a rubber flex coupling in its tailshaft/prop shafts, not serviceable cross-type uni joints. This matches the Ford workshop documentation and common parts listings for these vehicles.

What causes clunks or vibration if there are no uni joints?
Most Territory clunks on take-off or gear changes come from a cracked flex coupling or play in a tailshaft CV joint. Persistent speed-related vibration often points to a tired centre bearing or a tailshaft that needs rebalancing after previous work.

Can I replace just the faulty part, or do I need a whole tailshaft?
In many cases the flex coupling, centre bearing or CV joint can be replaced individually using quality kits. If the shaft tubes are dented, the splines are worn, or balance is out of spec, a complete reman or new shaft is the better call.