Drive/Propeller Shaft: Description and Operation

Driveshaft

The driveshafts consist of the following:

- U-joint flanges
- CV joint flanges
- U-joints
- CV joints
- Slip-yoke
- Slip-joint boots
- Traditional welded-on balance weights

NOTE: Whenever the vehicle is raised on a hoist, inspect the U-joint slip-yoke boot for rips or holes. Install new if required.

NOTE: All driveshafts are balanced. If undercoating the vehicle, protect the driveshaft and U-joints to prevent application of any undercoating material.

The driveshaft transfers input from the transmission or transfer case to the front or rear drive axles. The driveshaft is composed of the U-joints or CV joints, connecting shafts and attaching yokes. The driveshaft accommodates the change in length in the driveline system by sliding on the transmission output shaft with a slip-yoke or a slip-joint which is integral to the driveshaft. The shafts vary in diameter, length, number of coupling shafts and U-joints or CV joints, depending on vehicle application.