Axle Shaft: Description and Operation

The rear half shaft assemblies are used to transmit torque from the differential to the rear wheels. They have single cardan universal joints at both their inboard (axle) and outboard (wheel) ends. The universal joints are connected by interconnecting shafts which are splined at the center. This splined slip yoke is covered by a protective boot. The lefthand and righthand shafts are the same. All driveshaft assemblies are balanced. If the vehicle is to be undercoated, cover the driveshaft and U-joints to prevent application of any undercoating material. Never raise the vehicle using the axle differential housing or half shafts as lift points or tow and/or secure vehicle using the half shafts as anchor points.