Principles of Operation

Driveline System





Principals of Operation

Driveline System - General Information

The driveline system enables the power generated by the engine and transferred through the transmission in Front Wheel Drive (FWD) , or the transmission and the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) in All-Wheel Drive (AWD) to place the vehicle in motion. Rotational torque received from the transmission or PTU (Power Transfer Unit) is delivered to the front wheels by halfshafts or the rear axle by way of the driveshaft(s). The U-joints or CV joints at the ends of the shafts allow the shafts to rotate smoothly in an allowable angle plane. The rotational torque is introduced into the axle drive pinion which drives the differential ring gear. The ring gear is bolted to the axle differential which divides the torque between the left and right axle shafts, while permitting the shafts to turn at different speeds when required, such as when cornering.


Driveshaft Center U-Joint and CV Joint Inspection

With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. Rotate the driveshaft by hand. Check for rough operation or seizure of the U-joints or CV joints. Install a new driveshaft if it shows signs of seizure, excessive wear or incorrect seating.

Driveshaft Center Bearing

With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. Rotate the driveshaft by hand. If the bearing shows signs of roughness or is noisy, install a new driveshaft assembly.