Rear Axle Shaft Tripod Joints
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Pontiac Montana, 2003 Oldsmobile Silhouette, and 2003 Chevrolet Venture. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The rear axle shaft tripod joints are made without an over-extension limitation retainer. Care must be exercised when removing and installing the rear axle shafts in order not to over-extend the tripod joints. Damage and tripod failure may result. The joint is constructed as follows:
- The wheel drive axle has a female spline. The female spline installs over an axle shaft that protrudes from the rear differential.
- The wheel drive axle utilizes a barrel-type retaining ring in order to positively secure the inner tripod joint to the rear differential axle shaft.