HQ Truck Parts is proud to present an exclusive look at why the U-Joint Protector was invented, a truly innovative product born from a real-world problem. In this compelling video, Ryan Hunter, the inventor himself, continues the story in part 2, and shares the fascinating and often surprising origin story of this game-changing solution. Discover the story behind the U-Joint Protector and why this new approach to a long-standing issue matters to every driver.
The Fleet Owner Problem
You’ve faced the frustration: that stubborn stripe of grease marring your truck’s chassis, dirtying your perfectly maintained equipment. Let’s face it, you need to keep the grease in and debris out. For years, U-joint wear was an unavoidable headache for dedicated truck owners and restoration enthusiasts alike. But what if a revolutionary solution could keep your vehicle cleaner, protect its value, and simplify your maintenance routine?
Creation Story: Why the U-Joint Protector Was invented
The Moment of Innovation: A Bronco’s Grease Stain Sparks a Revolution
“Ryan, you have got to make something to cover these U-joints, I am sick of dealing with this grease problem.” Said, Ryan’s brother.
The journey of the U-Joint Protector began not on a heavy-duty rig, but with a meticulously restored 1970 Bronco in 2015. Ryan’s brother, after countless hours of restoration work, took his classic for its inaugural drive.
A routine check underneath revealed a disheartening sight: a prominent grease stripe directly above the U-joints, staining the freshly painted body and frame.
This was the moment that initiated ten years of work inventing and refining the U-Joint Protector. HQtruckparts.com partners with inventors like Ryan to help them get their products to Fleets, Drivers and OEMs.
The U-Joint Protector is Invented
Frustration led to a phone call to Ryan: “You have got to make something to cover these U-joints! I am so sick of dealing with this grease problem.” This wasn’t an isolated incident for his brother; as a former owner of a truck fleet, he had battled this identical issue for years, always striving to keep his commercial vehicles spotless. This personal pain point, shared by countless others in the trucking industry, was the catalyst.
Ryan immediately recognized the widespread need and got to work. His very first concept sketch, a simple drawing, strikingly resembles the final product you see today. This raw idea quickly transformed.
From a Humble Sketch to a Patented, Performance-Driven Solution
Through rigorous research and development, including advanced 3D-printed prototypes, the U-Joint Protector was meticulously refined and specifically adapted for the demanding environment of the heavy truck market. This isn’t just a cover; it’s a precisely engineered protector designed for durability and effectiveness.
Many iterations had to occur before the product was ready for market and distribution. You can now buy protection and extend its life because of the hard work of Ryan.
HQ Truck Parts is pleased to present this to you as exclusive distributors for Ryan and Hunter Works.
A Decade of Dedication: The Inventor’s Journey to Solving Your Problem
The path from an initial idea to a patented, market-ready product is often long and challenging. As Ryan candidly explains, this particular invention involved a significant 10-year process, with the intricate patent filing alone taking over four years. But the core message for drivers and aspiring innovators alike is profound: it’s entirely possible to create solutions that solve persistent problems. A simple sketch, driven by a desire to improve daily life, can indeed lead to a valuable product that benefits thousands.
Ryan’s unwavering commitment is clear: to genuinely improve the lives of the people who invest in his product. When an invention provides tangible benefits to the customer while also achieving commercial success, it creates the ultimate win-win scenario. This is more than just a product; it’s a solution forged from dedication and understanding of the trucking industry’s needs.
The Solution: The Invention of the U-Joint Protector
Have we answered the question, “Why the U-Joint Protector was invented?” We hope you appreciate this interview, a bit about the Inventor, Ryan Hunter. And, that his U-Joint Protector isn’t just another rubber boot. It’s a tough, engineered barrier that forms a physical shield over the most exposed and damage-prone area of the driveline. It’s designed to hold securely in-place, without modifying the truck or requiring custom mounts.
By acting as a first line of defense, the protector prevents:
- Foreign object damage
- Contamination from debris, twine, and stalks
- Premature seal failure and grease loss (extends U-Joint life by 3x)
It’s brand new but quickly becoming a go to device to keep trucks on the road. It’s in use across multiple industries — agriculture, waste management, construction, and long-haul trucking — Ryan would love to hear from you.
Why HQ Truck Parts?
HQ Truck Parts is proud to be the exclusive distributor of the U-Joint Protector. We work directly with Ryan, the inventor, to ensure this innovative product is available to truckers, fleet owners, and maintenance managers across the U.S.
HQ U-Joint Protector Covers
Repair or replace your semi U-joint or driveshaft only after buying NEW-2-MARKET U-Joint protector.
“Multi-Fit” option with mount pads for all diameters within 7 inches or less this is the kit for you.
Ships Free!
Follow The “News On The Move”
The Rest of Ryan’s Story
Some of the best products start with someone willing to observe and solve real-world problems. That’s exactly what Ryan did, and why HQ loves this solution for our truckers.
Ryan Hunter’s U-Joint Protector origin story came from listening to the men and women who work the hardest jobs in the roughest environments. Ryan will be providing more about the U-Joint Protector next time here at High Quality Truck Parts. Be sure to subscribe.
