The universal joint is considered to be one of the oldest of all flexible couplings. It is commonly known for its use on automobiles and trucks. A universal joint in its simplest form consists of two shaft yokes at right angles to each other and a four point cross which connects the yokes. The cross rides inside the bearing cap assemblies, which are pressed into the yoke eyes.

Industrial applications operate continuously and with high torque loads. This demands maximum strength and long life of the universal joint components. The modern universal joint has become much more complex than its simple ancestor. The universal joints manufactured by Ameridrives are made for demanding industrial applications.