Parts for your 2020 Toyota Hilux-Universal joints

2020 Toyota HiLux universaljoints: what they do and how to look after them

Based on technical references &mdash, including the Toyota HiLux (N80, 2015–2020) workshop manual sections covering &ldquo,Propeller Shaft with U-Joint&rdquo,, Toyota&rsquo,s Electronic Parts Catalogue listings for propeller shafts and universal joint service kits, and independent service guides such as Gregory&rsquo,s/Haynes &mdash, universaljoints are absolutely fitted to the 2020 Toyota HiLux. The rear propeller shaft uses universaljoints, and 4x4 variants also run universaljoints on the front prop shaft. The front drive axles to the hubs use CV joints, but the propshafts are universal joint territory.

On this ute, universaljoints (U-joints) let the prop shafts transmit torque while the diff and gearbox/transfer case sit at different angles and move under load. They cope with suspension travel, lifts, towing loads and corrugations without binding. Rear-wheel-drive HiLux models run U-joints at the rear shaft ends, while 4x4 versions typically have multiple U-joints across the rear two-piece shaft and the front prop, sometimes with a double-cardan arrangement to smooth angles.

Servicing is straightforward but worth doing right. Many Aussie and Kiwi HiLuxes have greasable joints and slip yokes, others are sealed-for-life. If there are grease nipples, a quality NLGI #2 multipurpose chassis grease at each service interval (or after water crossings and mud) keeps the needles happy. Even sealed joints need inspection for play, dry seals and &ldquo,rust dust&rdquo, around the caps.

Tell-tale signs a HiLux universaljoint is on the way out include a chirp or squeak at low speed, a clunk on take-off or shifting from reverse to drive, and a vibration through 60–90 km/h that won&rsquo,t balance out with new tyres. Don&rsquo,t ignore it &mdash, a failed U-joint can take out the shaft, centre bearing, or even the transfer case.

• At each 10,000–15,000 km service: check for free play at each cap, dry or cracked seals, red/brown dust, heat discolouration and missing grease nipples.
• If greasable: pump fresh grease until clean purge appears at the seals, then wipe off excess. Re-lube after deep water or beach work.
• When replacing: mark the flanges and yokes to maintain phasing, support the shaft to avoid denting, use new circlips, and have the assembly balanced if there&rsquo,s any doubt. If the joints are sealed and staked, replace the joint with a correct-spec kit or fit a complete prop shaft assembly as per the Toyota manual.

A tidy driveline rides smoother, lasts longer and saves coin on bigger repairs, so keeping the universaljoints in top nick is smart servicing for any 2020 HiLux.

Popular questions about 2020 Toyota HiLux universaljoints

Do all 2020 HiLux models have universaljoints?

Yes. The rear propeller shaft on the 2020 HiLux uses universaljoints across 4x2 and 4x4 variants. On 4x4 models, the front prop shaft also uses universaljoints. Only the front drive axles to the wheels use CV joints, which is a different setup.

How often should HiLux universaljoints be greased?

If the joints have grease nipples, service them at regular maintenance intervals (about every 10,000–15,000 km) and after water crossings or heavy off-road work. If yours are sealed-for-life, there&rsquo,s no greasing point, but they should still be inspected at each service for play, noise and seal condition.

What are the common symptoms of a worn universaljoint on a 2020 HiLux?

Listen for a squeak at low speed, feel for a clunk on take-off or when shifting between reverse and drive, and watch for a steady-speed vibration that tyre balancing won&rsquo,t fix. Rust-coloured dust near the bearing caps and any free play at the yokes are also dead giveaways.