Spicer SPL Series Universal Joints and Yokes

One of the new generation series, Spicer’s SPL is gradually becoming widespread in driveshaft application. Boasting improved joint design, SPL is specified as original equipment in International Trucks and others. A combination of snap ring and new spring clip rentention, SPL joints feature improved seal design and bearing cap thrust washers that keep the cap and the u-joint body separated, eliminating end galling and extending joint life.
 All SPL series joint caps are clearly marked with the series number, as shown in the photo above – joint identification is a matter of checking the bearing cap. Even so, the series can be identified by joint width and cap diameter measurements. Though SPL joints are metric in dimension, we have provided english measurements in the ID chart. SPL end yokes are similar in appearance to half-round yokes in Spicer’s 10 Series, however the straps are cast instead of stamped, providing greater strength and virtually eliminating strap stretch. The SPL centering tab design is still subject to wear and will show the “clean edge” on a spinning bearing cap as does the 10 Series half-round design. Visually inspect your driveshaft regularly!

Installation Note:
Spring tab cap retention is a new design and should be treated differently than other joints. Some SPL joint kits come with a tool for cap installation, limiting the depth to which the cap is pressed into the yoke bore. This is to insure proper spring tab function. SPL joint caps must be pressed in, not hammered! A polymer thrust washer is in the bottom of the cap and hammering an SPL cap into a yoke will shatter this washer, destroying the joint’s functionality. Use the cap tool for each installation with an arbor/hydraulic press – do not hammer the cap into the yoke! Observe the torque specification for the spring tab bolts – do not over torque!

SPL Series Joint ID Chart

SPL Series joints are gradually replacing most of the other round cap design joints in the Spicer line, resulting in some confusion for the dealer and the end user. Some of the older designations for Spicer joint series are being replaced by SPL part numbers, yet the old part numbers and joint designs remain available. Not all SPL designs use the spring clip – some still use the outside snap ring retention design.