U-joint cover

[Klewis]

Is the canvas cover needed on the rear u-joint on a 1949 Plymouth special deluxe? Mines deteriorated and I’d like to just cut it off and be done.

[kencombs]

It's needed.   It is all that separates the grease-lubed working parts from dust, dirt, water an other stuff that may be picked up on the road.   Dirty/dusty grease makes a fine lapping compound, removes lots of metal quickly.

[Klewis]

18 minutes ago, kencombs said:

It's needed.   It is all that separates the grease-lubed working parts from dust, dirt, water an other stuff that may be picked up on the road.   Dirty/dusty grease makes a fine lapping compound, removes lots of metal quickly.

Are replacements available 

[kencombs]

They are available from some sources, but they will be rubber, not leather and a royal pain to install.

[Young Ed]

Check dorman generic CV joint boots. I'm running them on my p15. They installed fairly easily but full disclosure I haven't been back under to inspect their longevity 

[Sam Buchanan]

Here is my thread on installing leather boots:

 

https://p15-d24.com/topic/59682-installing-leather-u-joint-boots/

 

The boots are available here:

 

https://www.ebay.com/itm/1946-1947-1948-PLYMOUTH-P15-U-JOINT-LEATHER-COVER-MOPAR-SPECIAL-DELUXE-CHRYCO/182964254211?hash=item2a9984f603:g:XO4AAOSwWCBax6DG

 

The boots have over a thousand miles on them and look great.

[Klewis]

Thanks all hopefully the problem is fixed, haven’t had it out yet though. We’ll see if it holds when I take it to the muffler shop.

[Sam Buchanan]

Your boot looks different from mine but it appears your boot is installed backwards. Most likely the large end should be on the driveshaft and the small end around the trunnion. Here is the installation on my P15:

 

Edited September 4 by Sam Buchanan