Abstract: A universal joint adapted for use in high impact wrenches is disclosed. The universal joint comprises a tubular housing having a first end and a second end. A first ball joint having an input shaft with a ball member disposed at one end thereof and an attaching head disposed at the other end thereof is coupled to the tubular housing adjacent the first end thereof. A second ball joint having an output shaft with a ball member disposed at one end thereof and a socket head disposed at the other end thereof is coupled to the tubular housing adjacent the second end thereof. An external spring is disposed about the output shaft and journaled between the socket head and the second end of the housing. The external spring is arranged and configured on the universal joint so as to increase the flexibility of the second ball joint and to cause the second ball joint to return to axial alignment with the tubular housing after each use.