: CTM or the new Ox u-joints


rockwrangler
11-26-2002, 07:47 AM
Just ordered Warn alloy axle shafts now I need u-joints who here is using the CTM joints and has anybody seen or run the new OX trax u-joint I was looking for some USER feed back

Checked the Ox web site and could not find info on the Ox-joint
I have read some about the CTM-joint looks good and maybe on the list


AND YES IDid the search

Kilby
11-26-2002, 07:56 AM
There is a short 'review' on the OX joints in the new JP Mag. Check that out. They apparently hold a lot more grease & use slotted caps to hold the pins in. Looks like they might be " easier " to install & maintain.

If I were buying U-joints I'd go w/ CTM's simply because of their established reputation for HIGH quality

Sundowner
11-26-2002, 08:00 AM
the designs are fundamentally different, but I'd LOVE to see and independant test of break strength. However, an unfortunate reality in the off-road vendor industry is that customer service and feedback matter and CTM has been there the whole way, making them the obvious choice.

keithroo
11-26-2002, 08:20 AM
You can get the OX U-joints through drivetrain direct......IF they ever become a reality. Last I checked still not available. OX keeps making design changes. Independent testing shows that the OX U-joint is significantly stronger. The design is NOT fundamentaly the same. I ended up getting the CTM's because they were the best available.

Keith Strong
11-26-2002, 08:23 AM
You didnt search very well. There was a HUGE thread on this a month or so ago. Search unde rthe ox joint...it started about that then turned into a large ox vs ctm thread.

Keith Strong
11-26-2002, 08:25 AM
Here is one I found on first search. Not the one I was thinking of though


http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=53098&highlight=ox+joint+ctm

rockwrangler
11-26-2002, 08:35 AM
Keith
For some reason when I put in Ox joint I got nothing back But I just went and ordered the CTM Joints they are TESTED TUFF

But thanks for your GREAT HELP:D
EDIT::flipoff2:

Sundowner
11-26-2002, 08:36 AM
I said:
the designs are fundamentally different

you said:
. The design is NOT fundamentaly the same

I love newbies who don't read.
the ones who don't search were getting so passe...

Peak ZJ
11-26-2002, 08:38 AM
What did your Warn alloy shafts run you?

Sundowner
11-26-2002, 08:45 AM
What did your Warn alloy shafts run you?

see what I mean?
totally passe.

Oxjockey
11-26-2002, 08:50 AM
Originally posted by Sundowner


see what I mean?
totally passe.

Is that French for stupid? :flipoff2:

Kicker
11-26-2002, 08:50 AM
FYI

I have heard the numbers that the OX, CTM, 300M body version of stock design, and the stock Dana part break at...

Lets put it this way, you shouldn't ever break the OX. They broke their test fixture before they could snap it. All the others, including the CTM broke long before that point. I could give the numbers, I do remember them, but I don't think it's my place to give out their test data.

Now if you need joints now, then you might have to go the CTM route. If you have time to wait, doesn't sound like it, you can wait for Drivetrain to get their issues figured out. I think OX is having issues supplying.

You might try calling Drivetrain and see if they will tell you what they break at.

bigdude
11-26-2002, 09:12 AM
Originally posted by Kicker
FYI

I have heard the numbers that the OX, CTM, 300M body version of stock design, and the stock Dana part break at...

Lets put it this way, you shouldn't ever break the OX. They broke their test fixture before they could snap it. All the others, including the CTM broke long before that point. I could give the numbers, I do remember them, but I don't think it's my place to give out their test data.

Now if you need joints now, then you might have to go the CTM route. If you have time to wait, doesn't sound like it, you can wait for Drivetrain to get their issues figured out. I think OX is having issues supplying.

You might try calling Drivetrain and see if they will tell you what they break at.


That must be why so many people are out testing them in different situations :flipoff2:

Ox smox. Machine testing is one thing and IMO it isn't enough to base a purchase off of ;)

LAME
11-26-2002, 09:14 AM
Originally posted by bigdude



That must be why so many people are out testing them in different situations :flipoff2:

Ox smox. Machine testing is one thing and IMO it isn't enough to base a purchase off of ;)

Yep, data can be extrapolated to say whatever the fawk you want it to. Somebody has to buy 'em and try some real world stuff to see how well they work.:D

Sundowner
11-26-2002, 09:16 AM
Lets put it this way, you shouldn't ever break the OX. They broke their test fixture before they could snap it. All the others, including the CTM broke long before that point. I could give the numbers, I do remember them, but I don't think it's my place to give out their test data.

you know the numbers, but "it isn't your place to give out test data"?

what is your place, exactly?

OX or DTD employee?

industrial spy?

sandwich delivery boy who overheard a conversation?

what?

Oxjockey
11-26-2002, 09:33 AM
I just called DD and spoke with Mike. He said that they are having supply issues, and you're looking at 6 months lead time & they're retailing for $169. He asked what they were going in, I said a CJ with a D44, and he said the reason they ask is because they're recommended for competition vehicles only because the weak link becomes my ring & pinion. (Thanks. :rolleyes:)

In any event, I asked about testing & strength and he volunteered that they tested stronger than a D60 ujoint...I said what about a CTM? He said "comparable". He did not have any specific numbers off hand.

Just an FYI...

Bryan

XtremeEngineering
11-26-2002, 09:46 AM
Put it this way. Jack has bee there done that, Suports this board, Wheels himself, and is a hell of a nice guy.
PS: He also stands behind his shit, no BS.

What has OX done for you. Who have you seen run them. I think that the choise is plain and your eyes arn't open if you can not see it. Granted what would the world be like without a little variety but for the love of god man make the right choise.

Nick

bigdude
11-26-2002, 09:48 AM
Originally posted by Oxjockey
He asked what they were going in, I said a CJ with a D44, and he said the reason they ask is because they're recommended for competition vehicles only because the weak link becomes my ring & pinion.

What a great marketing ploy to the JUite.

"Man I called and they are only recommended for competition vehicles so I ordered them right then. They are definitely the strongest since they are recommended for competition only."



And how many competitors have run them??????? :D (call them back and ask that, please ;) )

1988YJ
11-26-2002, 10:01 AM
I ordered mine from Jack, great customer service and a LIFETIME no hassle garrantee. Real world tested and matched up with Warn alloys. Jack sent his out to be tested in competetion under the application they would be used in, aside from the test jig. That takes some balls and confidence in your product to do it in the open and let your customers judge your product and reputation. CTM has my vote.

LAME
11-26-2002, 10:31 AM
Originally posted by bigdude

And how many competitors have run them??????? :D (call them back and ask that, please ;) )

The same guys that are running Trail Ready jungle gym bumpers in comps:D

RCKRATZ
11-26-2002, 10:32 AM
Just ordered my CTM's from Jack last week, if you ask me this is a no brainer. How can you compare a joint that no one has seen to one that is being run on comp rigs that are gettin' it and surviving the harsh treatment. CTM hands down.

Kicker
11-26-2002, 01:21 PM
I'm just adding in what I know. I don't work for either...Hell, I haven't even had good experience with DTD myself. I've talked to CTM on a couple occasions and found them to be very nice people.

I was just letting you guys know a little info. I could care less who gives out free stuff to comp guys. I'm not a comp guy, so it doesn't benefit me if someone else gets freebies. I know that CTM has a strong piece. That is obvious.

I know a lot of people in the industry...So I get to hear about some of the cool stuff people make, before the general public does. Does that mean I get to spill my guts on every little thing I hear? I don't think so.

And yes, you are right...Rig testing and real world are two different things. I know because I have rig tested many of my own products and found different results in the field. Rig's only give you a "benchmark" to rate parts on.

Steve N
11-26-2002, 01:21 PM
Originally posted by Peak ZJ
Passe my cock!



Nice sig. I bet you wish something else was that long. :flipoff2:

wanderingwillys
11-26-2002, 01:28 PM
Jack was very quick and responsive in answering any questions I had when I even said I was just shopping for now and had no intentions of buying any time soon, He was even interested in following up on the Randy's 4340 shafts that were due to come out as to offer another option to Warn's... Truth be told the Warn's are still the better choice - so I sucked it up and got Warn's.

When I did finally buy the joints they came much quicker than quoted and were even better than expected (heavy little suckers) - The install was a chore even with a shop press - these joints use every possible space inside those crosses as well as as much engineering you can cram into that space.

I was going to wait for the OX's and be a test monkey - but got tired of the "3 - 4 more weeks routine" that got played several times buy the DTD guys (at least 3 times) - until finally getting someone to admit they had no friggin clue when the joints would be in - talk about unobtainum :flipoff2:

Why give your business to a company that treats you like a little kid - at least Jack is an innovator and willing to put his reputation on the line to back up his stuff... Nothing is unbreakable; as evidenced by the fact that several CTM's have failed but would you rather chew up a R&P or possibly bust a joint that has a lifetime warranty (with a customer oriented warranty policy)... I vote for the joint...

God help you if you bust an OX and try and warranty it after the run-around I have gotten from them so far - no thanks

Matt

Shaggygto
11-26-2002, 02:11 PM
Originally posted by keithroo
You can get the OX U-joints through drivetrain direct......IF they ever become a reality. Last I checked still not available. OX keeps making design changes. Independent testing shows that the OX U-joint is significantly stronger. The design is NOT fundamentaly the same. I ended up getting the CTM's because they were the best available.

Who did the testing? What was is the yield pressure? etc?

rockwrangler
11-26-2002, 02:14 PM
The install was a chore even with a shop press

Will i need a SHOP PRESS to install the CTM joints that I just ordered?

Are there any TRICKS to installing the CTM joints?

XtremeEngineering
11-26-2002, 03:25 PM
I have installed a couple of CTM's and just used a vise, hammer, snap ring pliers, ect.. They were not that bad just a little time consuming. All the joints were with Warn shafts. I would say they took me 5 minutes longer than a 297 with a full snap ring.

Nick

rockwrangler
11-26-2002, 03:48 PM
I have installed a couple of CTM's and just used a vise, hammer, snap ring pliers, ect.. They were not that bad just a little time consuming. All the joints were with Warn shafts. I would say they took me 5 minutes longer than a 297 with a full snap ring.

Nick


Thanks Nick thought I might have to buy another tool for the Garage:D Where to put a 20 ton press:confused:
Idea!!! The Wifes spare bedroom YEA!!!!
The wife gets home:nuke:

Po' riggity
11-26-2002, 08:22 PM
If it were me, I wouldn't be the guinea pig for the OX joint. They look like nothing more then a dressed up 297. I'll take CTM's thanks.
Scott

H8monday
11-26-2002, 08:28 PM
Im a big fan of the CTM's :D,

Kensoffroad
11-26-2002, 08:41 PM
I would run the ox if they gavem to me free.why not

Lance
11-26-2002, 08:45 PM
Originally posted by keithroo
OX keeps making design changes. Independent testing shows that the OX U-joint is significantly stronger.

If they are so much stronger, then why is it they keep making design changes? :laughing: I've personally held these ujoints in my hand.... I truely belive they will NOT be as strong as a CTM ujoint. And I am not saying that because I run CTM's. I will run whatever is BEST. I feel that the CTM is a brute strength design, and the OX is a gimmicky POS. Stronger than a 297? Hell yeah. Stronger (or as strong) as a CTM? No way. I guess time will tell, when they finally "quit making design changes". :laughing:

Originally posted by Kicker
I know a lot of people in the industry...So I get to hear about some of the cool stuff people make, before the general public does. Does that mean I get to spill my guts on every little thing I hear? I don't think so.

:rolleyes: Whatever dude. Why the hell WOULDN'T you spill your guts? I think it's safe to say I know a hell of a lot more people in the industry, and I'm always happy to spill my guts. :D Spill your info, or don't claim to know anything, cuz you're full of shit.

bigdude
11-27-2002, 05:00 AM
Originally posted by Lance


If they are so much stronger, then why is it they keep making design changes? :laughing: I've personally held these ujoints in my hand.... I truely belive they will NOT be as strong as a CTM ujoint. And I am not saying that because I run CTM's. I will run whatever is BEST. I feel that the CTM is a brute strength design, and the OX is a gimmicky POS. Stronger than a 297? Hell yeah. Stronger (or as strong) as a CTM? No way. I guess time will tell, when they finally "quit making design changes". :laughing:



:rolleyes: Whatever dude. Why the hell WOULDN'T you spill your guts? I think it's safe to say I know a hell of a lot more people in the industry, and I'm always happy to spill my guts. :D Spill your info, or don't claim to know anything, cuz you're full of shit. [/B]


SMACK

Happy Thanksgiving :flipoff2:

mrblaine
11-27-2002, 10:31 AM
First off, Jack is a good friend and wheelin' buddy. But, for the sake of openmindedness, if you were to look at the Ox joint from a more technical perspective and for a moment overlook their and DD's apparent lack of willing and honest communication with the consumer, some things are interesting.

Take a look at a joint installed in a set of axles. The design becomes very obvious. They moved the leverage points against the body out as far as possible. The body of the joint fits right up against the inner surface of the yokes.

If you look at a set of 5 ton front axles from a Rockwell, the ones at Jack's shop just have a simple bolt together two piece ring with holes 90 degrees apart for the yoke ends to ride in.

Similar concept to the Ox except the Ox further supports the ring with some more material to form the rest of the body.

The point I am trying to make is that the joint is a very nice example of out of the box thinking and has some good engineering if my assumptions about the strength of the Rockwell joint is correct.

Shortest lever possible acting on the body, bushings instead of needle bearings to increase pin size, and a unique manner of assemblage.

Now, after having typed all that stuff, would I ever run them? No way in hell, not even if a truckload showed up at my door for free. I just have an appreciation of things mechanical and this joint is at least interesting from that perspective. I would love to have one as a paperweight though.

As others have experienced and stated repeatedly, Jack is there for us, takes care of us, and I think he was the first to toss his stuff out there for non-secret destructive testing. And Yes, he broke several competitors "fixtures" with his testing and still does.

Augdog
11-27-2002, 01:30 PM
Originally posted by rockwrangler
Just ordered Warn alloy axle shafts now I need u-joints who here is using the CTM joints and has anybody seen or run the new OX trax u-joint I was looking for some USER feed back

Checked the Ox web site and could not find info on the Ox-joint
I have read some about the CTM-joint looks good and maybe on the list


AND YES IDid the search

Ive heard good things about these. Here is the link. Check it out. http://www.sn-fab.com/products/Tom/ujoint.html