Spicer 1350 Series U-Joint Kit 5-178X (OSR) — 3.625" cap spacing, greaseable 1.188" caps

Spicer 5-178X is a greaseable 1350-series universal joint kit with outside snap rings designed as a direct OE-style replacement for driveshafts with a 3.625" bearing cap spacing.

Built to Spicer's original equipment standards, this U-joint kit (part number 5-178X / CP178X / 2-0053 / 331) offers a durable, greaseable design for vehicles and equipment requiring a 1350-series joint. The kit features outside snap rings (OSR) and 1.188" bearing caps, making it suitable for many driveshaft and rear axle applications. Because Spicer manufactures to OE tolerances, this kit is intended to restore factory fit, alignment, and serviceability without expensive modification.

What exact measurements and fit details does this Spicer U-joint use?

The Spicer 5-178X is a 1350 Series greaseable universal joint with outside snap rings. Its bearing cap diameter is 1.188 inches and the distance from outside bearing cap to outside bearing cap is 3.625 inches. Those precise dimensions make it compatible with driveshaft yokes and companion flanges designed for the 1350-series specification.

• Series: 1350 (medium-duty applications)
• Bearing cap diameter: 1.188"
• Outside-to-outside dimension: 3.625"
• Snap ring style: Outside snap rings (OSR)

How does this U-joint help with maintenance and longevity?

This kit is greaseable, allowing periodic lubrication to flush out contaminants and replenish bearing surfaces. Regular greasing reduces wear and helps the joint maintain smooth operation under torque and angle changes, extending service life compared with non-serviceable designs.

• Greaseable zerk enables routine lubrication
• Snap rings permit straightforward removal and replacement
• OE-level manufacturing tolerances minimize vibration and misalignment
• Durable materials resist fatigue in driveline service

Can I install this Spicer kit myself and what tools are needed?

Experienced DIY mechanics can replace a U-joint with basic tools, but proper presses or a vise and driver set are recommended to avoid bearing cup damage. Follow torque specs and safety procedures; if you’re unsure, have a qualified technician perform the swap to ensure correct alignment and secure snap ring seating.

• Common tools: socket set, snap-ring pliers, bench vise or hydraulic press
• Grease gun for initial and periodic lubrication
• Clean working area to prevent contamination of bearings
• Check yoke fit and driveshaft balance after installation

What applications and vehicles commonly use a 1350-series OSR U-joint?

1350-series U-joints are widely used on light trucks, SUVs, and some medium-duty driveline applications where higher torque capacity is required than smaller series joints. The outside snap ring configuration fits yokes designed for OSR retention and is commonly found on many factory driveshafts.

• Light trucks and SUVs with 1350-spec driveshafts
• Aftermarket and OE replacement driveshaft repairs
• Industrial equipment using standardized 1350 components
• Applications needing a greaseable, serviceable joint

Who this is for: The Spicer 5-178X U-joint kit is aimed at vehicle owners, fleet maintenance teams, and professional mechanics who need a reliable OE-spec replacement for 1350-series driveshafts with outside snap ring retention. Choose this kit if you require a greaseable joint with factory tolerances for restoring driveline smoothness, controlling vibration, and maintaining serviceability.