Parts for your 2016 Ford Transit-Universal joints

2016 Ford Transit Universal Joints

Technical service literature confirms the 2016 Ford Transit (full-size VO/NA model) uses cardan-type universal joints on the propeller shaft for rear‑wheel drive variants. The Ford Workshop Manual for 2015–2019 Transit (Section 205‑01 Driveline/Driveshaft – Description and Operation) specifies universal joints as part of the assembly and notes many are not serviced separately. Ford’s parts catalogue (base number 4635 – universal joint) lists the component within the driveline assembly, and major driveline suppliers’ catalogues for the Transit show U‑joint fitments. Front‑wheel drive variants instead use constant velocity (CV) joints at the driveshafts.

On a 2016 Ford Transit with rear‑wheel drive, universal joints sit at each end of the propeller shaft, allowing the shaft to transmit torque while operating at changing angles as the rear axle moves. They keep the van smooth and dependable under load, across highways and job sites, absorbing driveline angle changes that would otherwise cause binding or vibration.

Ford’s workshop guidance indicates many Transits of this era have non‑serviceable, staked or sealed U‑joints, if a joint fails, replacement of the complete driveshaft assembly is the prescribed repair. Some aftermarket driveshafts and joints are serviceable and greaseable, so the exact approach depends on what’s fitted. As part of regular servicing in Australian and New Zealand conditions—dust, corrugations, and frequent stop‑start work—U‑joints should be inspected every 20,000–30,000 km, or at each scheduled service if the vehicle tows or carries heavy loads.

• Typical warning signs include a light squeak at low speeds, a clunk on take‑off or shifting from reverse to drive, and a steady vibration that rises with road speed.
• Check for red dust around the bearing caps, looseness at the yokes, or perished seals. Any free play is a fail.
• If greaseable joints are fitted, a couple of pumps of quality NLGI #2 lithium complex grease at service helps purge contaminants.
• If joints are non‑serviceable, focus on inspection and prompt replacement at the first sign of wear to protect the transmission and diff.
• When replacing, mark the flanges so the shaft goes back in phase, torque the flange bolts to spec, and ensure correct centre bearing preload (on two‑piece shafts).
• After refit, a road test for vibration and recheck of fastener torque is smart practice, driveline balance may be required if components were disturbed.

Look after the universal joints and the Transit’s driveline will stay quiet, tight, and happy hauling across long Kiwi and Aussie kilometres.

Popular questions

Are the 2016 Transit’s universal joints serviceable, or is the whole shaft replaced?
Ford’s service information for many 2016 models specifies non‑serviceable U‑joints, meaning the complete driveshaft assembly is replaced if a joint fails. However, some vehicles will have serviceable aftermarket shafts or replacement joints fitted. A quick visual check for grease nipples or circlips usually tells the story.

If unsure, a driveline specialist can confirm whether the existing shaft accepts replacement joints or if an exchange shaft is the correct path.

What symptoms point to a failing U‑joint on a 2016 Transit?
Common clues are a chirp or squeak at low speeds, a clunk when shifting between drive and reverse, and a steady vibration that tracks with vehicle speed. Visible red dust near bearing caps, torn seals, or any detectable free play at the yokes also indicate wear.

How often should universal joints be checked in AU/NZ conditions?
As part of routine servicing, inspect every 20,000–30,000 km, or sooner if the van tows, runs loaded, or sees dirt roads. Greaseable joints should be lubricated at each service, non‑serviceable joints rely on clean seals and timely replacement when wear appears.