torque tube U-joint movement; 1937 Special

[70sWagoneers]

I'm replacing the torque tube seal on my 1937 Buick Special and noticed that the u-joint has some movement I'm not sure about. The bearings/bushing have no slop as if they were wore out but the inner cross bearings can slide in and out of their yoke outer races. There is about a 1/4" of movement north-south and east-west. I have no experience with this older stuff, but the modern u-joints I have seen have no movement like this. Am I missing something? 

Thanks

James C

 

 

 

20170614_204131.mp4

Edited June 15, 2017 by 70sWagoneers
A better video. (see edit history)

[DonMicheletti]

There should be no movement of the U joint at the back of the trans. There is a bolt that holds it in that is accessable via the end of the U joint after the drive shaft is out.

 

It is shown here:

http://www.1937and1938buicks.com/The-Torque-Tube/Volume V Issue 5 (March 1987).pdf

Check page 9 for a crossection of the transmission

[70sWagoneers]

An ol'-timer aircraft mechanic at work said that the bushing in the torque ball "centers" the shaft.

 

[DonMicheletti]

70sWagoneers is right.