Parts for your 2020 Toyota Land cruiser-Universal joints

2020 Toyota LandCruiser universal joints

Universal joints are absolutely relevant and fitted to the 2020 Toyota LandCruiser (J200). Toyota’s 200 Series Repair Manual (Propeller Shaft section) specifies the front and rear propeller shafts using universal joints, and the Toyota Australia Service & Warranty Logbook schedules regular lubrication of the propeller shaft/universal joints. The Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue also lists service kits for the propeller shaft universal joints on this model. So yes—your 2020 LandCruiser runs U-joints, and they’re part of routine servicing.

On a LandCruiser that works hard across Aussie and Kiwi roads (and off them), universal joints let the propeller shafts transfer torque even as suspension and driveline angles change. The rear shaft uses U-joints at each end, while the front typically employs a double-Cardan arrangement to smooth out angles from the transfer case to the front diff. Together with the slip joint, these keep things turning quietly and reliably whether it’s towing, touring, or crawling over ruts.

Servicing them is straightforward but important. Toyota’s schedule calls for lubricating the propeller shaft at regular intervals—every service—typically 10,000 km or 6 months in local conditions. After water crossings, beach sand, corrugations, or heavy towing, grease them sooner. Use a quality NLGI 2 lithium-based grease, clean the grease nipples before the gun goes on, and pump until fresh grease purges past the seals. While you’re under there, rotate the shaft to reach all fittings, check for rusty dust around the caps, any free play, binding, or a dry “chirp”.

Replacement time comes when there’s noticeable play, a clunk on take-up, vibration under load, or a squeak that won’t go away even after a proper grease. Mark the flanges to keep phasing, support the shaft, and torque the bolts to spec on reassembly. Press the old bearing cups out carefully, seat new circlips fully, and keep the yokes aligned. If balance weights are present, don’t disturb them. A quick test drive should be smooth—any fresh shudder means the angles, phasing, or balance need a second look. When in doubt, a driveline specialist can rebuild the shaft and set it up spot-on.

• Grease interval: every 10,000 km/6 months, sooner after mud, water, or sand.
• Watch for: clunks, vibration, chirps, rusty powder, or heat at the caps.
• Many AU/NZ 200 Series have greasable U-joints—check for nipples to confirm.

Popular questions

How often should the 2020 LandCruiser’s universal joints be greased?
Toyota’s local schedule calls for propeller shaft lubrication at every standard service—about every 10,000 km or 6 months. If the vehicle’s been through water crossings, beach sand, bulldust, or done a big towing stint, bring that forward. Use a good NLGI 2 lithium-based grease and keep pumping until clean grease purges from the seals.

What are the signs the universal joints need replacing?
Tell-tales include a driveline clunk when selecting gear or on throttle take-up, vibration that rises with speed, a dry chirp at low speeds, visible rusty powder around the bearing caps, or any stiffness or notchiness when the shaft is moved by hand. If greasing doesn’t quieten things down, it’s time to replace.

Are the 2020 LC200 universal joints serviceable or sealed?
Many Australian and New Zealand 200 Series LandCruisers are fitted with greasable U-joints and a greasable slip joint—look for grease nipples on the joints. Some region/build variations may use sealed joints, if there are no nipples, they’re non-greasable and should be replaced once wear shows.