1. Do not share user accounts! Any account that is shared by another person will be blocked and closed. This means: we will close not only the account that is shared, but also the main account of the user who uses another person's account. We have the ability to detect account sharing, so please do not try to cheat the system. This action will take place on 04/18/2023. Read all forum rules.
    Dismiss Notice
  2. For downloading SimTools plugins you need a Download Package. Get it with virtual coins that you receive for forum activity or Buy Download Package - We have a zero Spam tolerance so read our forum rules first.

    Buy Now a Download Plan!
  3. Do not try to cheat our system and do not post an unnecessary amount of useless posts only to earn credits here. We have a zero spam tolerance policy and this will cause a ban of your user account. Otherwise we wish you a pleasant stay here! Read the forum rules
  4. We have a few rules which you need to read and accept before posting anything here! Following these rules will keep the forum clean and your stay pleasant. Do not follow these rules can lead to permanent exclusion from this website: Read the forum rules.
    Are you a company? Read our company rules

Question U Joint

Discussion in 'DIY Motion Simulator Building Q&A / FAQ' started by Garrett Jones, Apr 17, 2019.

  1. Garrett Jones

    Garrett Jones New Member

    Joined:
    May 15, 2016
    Messages:
    2
    Location:
    Melbourne, FL
    Balance:
    152Coins
    Ratings:
    +0 / 0 / -0
    My Motion Simulator:
    2DOF
    Hello,

    I'm intending to build a 2 DOF full frame motion sim. The only aspect of the build I have some uncertainties about is the u-joint. Where is the best place to get one, and what is a rough estimate on how much it will cost?

    Thanks!
  2. noorbeast

    noorbeast VR Tassie Devil Staff Member Moderator Race Director

    Joined:
    Jul 13, 2014
    Messages:
    20,461
    Occupation:
    Innovative tech specialist for NGOs
    Location:
    St Helens, Tasmania, Australia
    Balance:
    144,602Coins
    Ratings:
    +10,741 / 52 / -2
    My Motion Simulator:
    3DOF, DC motor, JRK
    The cheapest option is to get get an old car tailshaft and cut the u-joint flange off and weld a mount plate to it.
  3. Historiker

    Historiker Dramamine Adict Gold Contributor

    Joined:
    Dec 16, 2010
    Messages:
    2,158
    Occupation:
    Retired
    Location:
    Michigan USA
    Balance:
    9,176Coins
    Ratings:
    +2,156 / 19 / -1
    My Motion Simulator:
    3DOF, DC motor, Arduino, Motion platform, 6DOF
    I have an extra, I will PM you.
    • Friendly Friendly x 1
  4. yellofella

    yellofella Member

    Joined:
    Aug 8, 2011
    Messages:
    94
    Occupation:
    builder
    Location:
    UK
    Balance:
    743Coins
    Ratings:
    +84 / 0 / -0
    My Motion Simulator:
    3DOF, SimforceGT
    I used the u joint from the adjustable height steering column from a Peugeot 206 that was at the local scrap yard. its a lot smaller than a drive shaft u joint and wouldn't of had the same amount of forces put upon it and is usually a lot cleaner once removed and has 40mm of height adjustment built in IMG_0014.JPG . the downside is that its far more difficult to remove than a drive shaft and you will probably have to pay for the whole steering column but id guess that the breaker wouldn't sell many so u might get it quite cheep. I welded mine direct to the base and seat frame to keep the height to a minimum. my height from base to seat frame is about 120mm
  5. 427Cobra

    427Cobra There is no substitute for cubic inches

    Joined:
    Dec 26, 2018
    Messages:
    47
    Location:
    Sweden
    Balance:
    567Coins
    Ratings:
    +22 / 1 / -0
    My Motion Simulator:
    2DOF, DC motor, JRK
    I have also thought about using an u joint from a steering column but is it stable enough and can it handle the load?
    There are different sizes but all are much smaller than a u joint from a driwe shaft.