What is the cause of repeated low mileage U-joint failure?

Repeated low mileage U-joint failure is most commonly caused by high speed and high angle operation. When U-joints operate under these conditions, they are subjected to increased stress and strain, which can lead to premature wear and failure. High speeds can create more heat and friction in the joint, while operating at high angles can put additional loads on the joint, both of which contribute to a quicker breakdown of the components. This is particularly critical in heavy-duty applications where equipment often engages in heavy loads and challenging operating conditions.

While other factors such as installation practices, material quality, and lubrication levels can influence U-joint lifespan, the critical combination of high speed and high angle operation is frequently the primary culprit for repeated failures in low mileage scenarios. It emphasizes the importance of selecting the right U-joint for the specific operating conditions and ensuring that the use case fits within recommended parameters for speed and angle to prevent such failures.