U-Joint ID Spicer 1350 and AAM 1355 Series IDN-142

How to ID a Spicer Type 1350 or AAM 1355 Series Driveshaft U-Joint or What is my u-joint size?

Spicer 1350 series u-joints with External Lock-Up (Snap Rings) has been used in production vehicles since the 1950 Rolls Royce and on 4x4s since 1960. The nearly identical AAM 1355 U-joint in first appeared in 2003 Ram front CV driveshafts but it is already obsolescent as it provided no advantage over the original 1350 series u-joint. The published OE manufacturer dimensions for the two series of u-joints differ by only 0.003". The difference is so small, that the manufacturing tolerances of the yokes overlap. The two series of u-joints are essentially interchangeable although changing the snap ring thickness may be required to get the best fit.

A 1350  or 1355 Series U-Joint is retained in driveshaft yokes by Snap Rings that fit into grooves machined in the driveshaft yoke ears and that seat against the end of the U-Joint Cap.  For most 1972 and prior 1350 applications, the u-joints will be secured to matching end yokes by u-bolts. From 1973-1986 either u-bolts (Ford) or Straps/Bolts (GM) are common. From 1987-on Straps and bolt are the original equipment choice for end yoke attachment. Strap and Bolts have become the preferred way to secure the u-joint caps to an end yoke. The main reason is u-bolts have a tendency to distort the caps leading to reduced service life. 1350/1355 series end yokes will have cast  tabs in the yoke saddles to hold the u-joint from lateral movement.

Two methods of forging the cross are common. The traditional Hot-Forged cross is cheaper to produce, but the cross hardness is a lower Rockwell value than the more modern and more expensive cold-forged crosses use in premium quality universal joints. Today, greaseable u-joints typically have hot-forged crosses and lubed for life u-joints will usually have cold-forged crosses. For older or lower power applications either cross design should provide satisfactory service, but for later model vehicles with either Diesel or high-torque gas engines we recommend you use premium u-joints with cold-forged crosses.

Spicer 1350 series Driveshaft Universal Joint Specifications:
Cap Diameter: 1-3/16"
Overall Width of Installed U-Joint: 3.625"

AAM 1355 series Driveshaft Universal Joint Specifications:
Cap Diameter: 1-3/16"
Overall Width of Installed U-Joint: 3.622"