Axle Shaft: Description and Operation

Constant Velocity Axle Shaft

The halfshafts transfer engine torque from the transaxle and differential to the front wheels. Constant velocity (CV) joints are installed at both ends of each halfshaft. All outer CV joints are Birfield type. All inner CV joints are tripod type. The tripod joints are used to prevent transfer of engine vibration through the driveshafts to the vehicle body.

The tripod CV joint can be disassembled and serviced. Other than the boot, the outer Birfield CV joint is serviced only as an assembly with the shaft.