Volvo Penta Complete Universal Joint 3887297 | DPH DPR DPI Sterndrive
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Part Details
- Part Number: 3887297
- Brand: Volvo Penta
- Type: Universal joint, complete — upper-drive U-joint assembly
- System: Sterndrive upper gear housing — U-joint and bearing carrier assembly
- Diagram Position: Upper gear housing / U-joint and bearing carrier assembly — one complete joint per drive
- Qty Per Drive: 1
- Weight: Approx. 2.5 kg (estimated)
- Important: This is the complete universal-joint assembly. For joint cross/spider replacement only, confirm whether service kit 3843136 applies to your drive before ordering the full assembly. DPH-E drives use a different complete U-joint (3862425) — do not order 3887297 for DPH-E without serial-number confirmation.
About This Part
Genuine Volvo Penta 3887297 is the OEM complete universal joint assembly used in the upper gear housing of selected Volvo Penta DPH, DPR, and DPI sterndrives. Drive manuals place 3887297 in the U-joint and bearing carrier assembly, where it transfers engine power into the upper gear housing while allowing for sterndrive trim and articulation. Volvo Penta identifies this specifically as “Universal joint, complete” — distinguishing it from the individual U-joint cross/spider service kit 3843136, which is a repair kit for the joint crosses in later assemblies rather than a replacement for the complete assembly. Confirm exact drive model, revision, and serial number before ordering, as later DPH generation drives can use a different complete U-joint assembly.
Compatible Applications
Diagram-confirmed:
- Volvo Penta DPH-A — upper gear housing U-joint assembly
- Volvo Penta DPH-B — upper gear housing U-joint assembly
- Volvo Penta DPH-D1 — upper gear housing U-joint assembly
- Volvo Penta DPR-A — upper gear housing U-joint assembly
- Volvo Penta DPR-B — upper gear housing U-joint assembly
- Volvo Penta DPR-D — upper gear housing U-joint assembly
Also associated in current parts references:
- Volvo Penta DPH-C — confirm by drive serial-number diagram
- Volvo Penta DPH-D — confirm by drive serial-number diagram
- Volvo Penta DPR-C — confirm by drive serial-number diagram
- Volvo Penta DPI-A — confirm by drive serial-number diagram
Do not apply to DPH-E without serial-number confirmation. Current DPH-E references specify complete universal joint 3862425, not 3887297. Always confirm drive model, revision, and serial number before ordering.
When to Replace
Inspect or replace this universal joint assembly when drive service reveals any of the following:
- Excessive rotational play in the U-joint
- Binding or rough movement during rotation
- Worn, pitted, or damaged spider bearing surfaces
- Corrosion from water intrusion — especially following bellows failure
- Vibration or knocking from the upper drive area
- Damage discovered during upper gear housing or bearing carrier service
A leaking or failed U-joint bellows can allow water to reach this assembly. Inspect 3887297 carefully whenever bellows damage is found — corrosion in the bearing surfaces may not be visible without disassembly.
Installation Notes
While servicing this U-joint assembly, inspect the surrounding bearing carrier, roller bearings, sealing ring 3863084, shims, U-joint bellows kit 3594509, and all associated clamps — Volvo Penta diagrams place all of these in the same U-joint and bearing carrier assembly. Shim selection and bearing preload setup are precision operations that must follow the applicable Volvo Penta workshop procedure for the exact DPH or DPR drive model. Do not reuse shims without confirming correct preload after installation.
Related Parts in This Assembly
- U-joint / spider service kit: 3843136 — repair kit for joint crosses in later assemblies; confirm whether this applies to your drive before ordering the complete 3887297 assembly
- U-joint bellows kit: 3594509 — bellows and clamp set for the U-joint assembly area
- Sealing ring: 3863084 — sealing component in the U-joint and bearing carrier assembly
Cross-Reference Part Numbers
- OEM (complete assembly): 3887297
- Related service kit (joint crosses only): 3843136 — not a substitute for the complete assembly
- DPH-E complete U-joint (different assembly): 3862425 — do not substitute for 3887297
- Note: No confirmed Volvo Penta OEM superseding number for the complete 3887297 assembly identified in current references.
Parts Desk Insight
3887297 is the complete U-joint assembly, not just the crosses or spiders. The most common decision point when ordering this part is whether the full assembly needs replacement or whether the drive is serviceable with the individual joint cross kit 3843136 alone. If only the spider bearing surfaces show wear but the yokes and main assembly are structurally sound, the spider kit may be sufficient — but if the assembly has been water-contaminated following bellows failure, or if the yokes show wear or corrosion, replacing the complete 3887297 is the better long-term choice. The other frequent mistake is ordering 3887297 for a DPH-E drive, which uses a different complete U-joint. Always confirm the drive generation and serial number before ordering at this price point.
Shipping information
In-stock and OEM parts: ship same or next business day.
Locally warehoused items: ship within 1-3 business days.
Special-order items: timeline confirmed after order.
Returns & warranty
Returns & Satisfaction Guarantee
We stand firmly behind the quality of every product we sell. Your confidence matters to us — and we back it with a straightforward 30-Day Satisfaction Guarantee.
If you are not fully satisfied, you may request a return within 30 days of delivery. All returns must receive pre-approval prior to being sent back. Unauthorized returns will not be accepted.
To qualify for a return:
Item must be in new, unused condition
Product must be in its original packaging
All parts, components, hardware, manuals, and accessories must be included
Packaging must be undamaged and suitable for resale
Important:
Electronics are strictly inspected. No returns on open-box electronics. Exceptions may apply only with prior written approval. Any electronic unit that has been installed, powered, activated, or altered may not be eligible for return.
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