Description & Operation
Drive shaft is a hollow shaft or tube made of stamped steel or light-weight aluminum and may be a one-piece or two-piece shaft. Drive shaft has universal joints at each end to accommodate angle variations between rigidly mounted transmission and motion of rear drive axle. Universal joint transmits power between engine/transmission and rear drive axle as it travels with motion of rear suspension.
One-piece drive shaft consists of a shaft, universal joints and splined slip joint yoke. See Fig 1 . The splined slip joint yoke couples the transmission to drive shaft. Universal joints are used to connect yoke to drive shaft and drive shaft to rear axle. Yoke slip joint allows for power to be transmitted as drive shaft angles change with rear suspension travel.
Two-piece drive shaft consists of forward shaft, rear shaft and center support bearing connected by a splined slip joint. See Fig 2 . Center support bearing is a ball bearing type, and is not serviceable. Center support bearing is mounted to torque arm and is used to prevent "whipping" (angular movement) as drive shaft angles change with rear suspension travel. Center support bearings are not serviceable, and if faulty must be replace as an assembly.
Original Equipment manufacturer (OEM) universal joints lubricated and sealed. All universal joints can be serviced with drive shaft removed from vehicle. Universal joints are needle roller type. Round bearing cups hold lubricated needle rollers in place on trunnion or spider of universal joint. See Fig 3 . Proper universal joint alignment angle is necessary to provide power and smooth operation of drive shaft. Check front and rear universal joint angles with vehicle at proper ride height and a full gas tank. Adjust front universal joint by shimming transmission mount. Adjust rear universal joint angle by shimming transmission mounting or repositioning pinion nose.