Which fasteners retain a cross-and-roller universal joint?

Prepare for the Automotive Service Technician Period 1 exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

A cross-and-roller universal joint must stay securely inside the two yokes as it flexes, so the retaining hardware is all about locking the cross and its bearing caps in place. Snap rings (circlips) fit into grooves on the ends of the cross to keep the bearing caps from walking out. The bearing caps themselves are secured in the yokes with cap screws, locking the caps to the cross assembly. U-bolts then clamp the two halves of the yoke together around the caps, helping maintain alignment and preventing separation during operation. Glue, rivets, or welds would prevent the joint from moving freely or being serviceable, and relying on nuts and bolts alone wouldn’t reliably retain the cross without the snap rings and proper clamping, so the combination of snap rings, cap screws, and U-bolts is what ensures proper retention.