Universal Joint Assembly 16310-N3170-71 — OEM Toyota 8FD35-80N Forklift Series

The Toyota universal joint assembly 16310-N3170-71 is a complete OEM-grade steering column U-joint designed for Toyota 8FD35 through 8FD80N 3.5-8.0 ton IC engine counterbalance forklifts. This assembly connects the steering column shaft to the orbitrol steering unit input shaft, transmitting steering torque while accommodating the angular misalignment between the tilting steering column and the fixed-position orbitrol unit. Unlike automotive U-joints that operate at high RPM with continuous rotation, forklift steering U-joints endure low-speed reciprocating motion with frequent directional reversals — a duty cycle that demands hardened bearing crosses, precision-ground needle bearings, and tight tolerance yoke fits to prevent the progressive development of steering free play. A worn universal joint on a Toyota 8FD series forklift manifests as a notchy steering feel with a dead zone at the straight-ahead position, metallic clicking when turning the wheel from lock to lock, and visible rotational play at the steering column-to-orbitrol coupling that can be felt by holding the U-joint while an assistant moves the steering wheel.

Replacing the 16310-N3170-71 universal joint on a Toyota 8FD forklift requires gaining access to the steering column base area — typically behind the dash panel or under the floor plate depending on the model year. Before disassembly, mark the phase alignment of both yokes relative to their shafts with a paint pen or center punch; incorrect phasing during reassembly creates a non-uniform angular velocity transfer that causes a cyclic tight-loose steering feel. The U-joint is secured by pinch bolts on each yoke — remove these fully and use a two-jaw puller to press the yoke off the shaft. Never hammer the yoke off the shaft as this peens the shaft end and makes installation of the new joint impossible without filing. When installing the new assembly, apply a light coat of molybdenum disulfide grease to the shaft splines before sliding the yoke on, align the phase marks, and torque the pinch bolts to Toyota specification. A loose pinch bolt is the most common cause of U-joint-related steering complaints. Verify smooth steering rotation lock-to-lock with the engine off before test-driving; any binding at specific steering angles indicates yoke misalignment or a tight bearing cross.

This U-joint assembly is a direct replacement for Toyota 8FD35, 8FD40, 8FD45, 8FD50, 8FD60, 8FD70, and 8FD80N IC engine forklifts specifying part number 16310-N3170-71. Confirm your model and part number before ordering. Browse our Universal Joint category for other Toyota steering components and orbitrol units. For OEM specifications, visit Toyota Forklift official site.

Technical Specifications

Compatible Forklift Models

Each universal joint assembly is inspected for bearing cross smoothness and yoke alignment before shipment. Standard export packaging with anti-corrosion protection. For bulk orders or other Toyota forklift steering parts, contact us with your part numbers.