Dana Incorporated has introduced Spicer Life Series Plus (SPL Plus) u-joints for light-vehicle applications. The new premium line features upgraded materials and enhanced features to provide superior overall strength and extended product life at high operating temperatures.

“Exhaust systems on today’s vehicles are often placed closer to the driveline, creating more stress on driveline components due to greater temperature fluctuations,” said Bill Nunnery, senior director, sales and marketing, global aftermarket for Dana. “We developed the new premium line of SPL Plus u-joints to provide enhanced maximum temperature capabilities, improved bearing life, and overall durability for vehicles requiring an increased heat range.”

Among the unique features found on SPL Plus u-joints are a journal cross engineered with a cold-formed body to ensure better overall strength; enhanced spacer material, including a thrust washer that eliminates friction, end galling, and metal-to-metal contact; and the bearing cap is case-hardened and precision-ground for added strength and durability. Upgraded green full-synthetic grease significantly improves maximum temperature capabilities and increases the bearing life. The multi-lip seal keeps grease in and contaminants out, while at the same time, offering maximum retention in a wider range of environments.