No, no U-joint. The coupling has to allow for some in and out movement of the shaft as the unibody flexes. The Chrysler design does that. As for how to attach the cover...Use clamps to pull the cover down tight. Then using a cold chisel, bend the tabs around the coupler body. When all tabs are bent around protrusions go around with chisel and firmly whack at the protrusions. This will leave a slight indentation on the tab. Using this method for years. Covers never come off, and grease doesn't ooze out either.