Strap Kits

A strap kit is the hardware set used to retain U-joint bearing cups on flange yokes and companion flanges that use strap-bolt retention rather than snap rings. Strap kits are standard on 1480-series and larger commercial truck U-joint applications, and on some 1350-series OEM installations. The strap bolts clamp a saddle plate over the bearing cup, preventing it from walking out of the bore under load — a retention method preferred for high-torque, high-shock applications where snap rings can fatigue and fail.

Strap kit selection:

Series — 1310, 1330, 1350, 1410, 1480, 1550, 1610, 1710 series kits are not interchangeable
Bolt grade — Grade 8 SAE or 10.9 metric. Never substitute lower-grade hardware in strap applications — the bolt is a structural retention element, not just a clamp
Quantity — a standard single U-joint replacement requires 4 straps and 8 bolts (2 straps per bearing cup, 2 cups per axis)

Strap bolts must be torqued to specification — undertorquing allows the strap to flex under load, and overtorquing yields the bolt and eliminates preload. Torque spec varies by series and bolt grade; see the individual product listing for the applicable torque value.