The half-shaft is also called the drive shaft, that is, the constant velocity universal joint assembly

The drive shaft is a solid shaft that transmits torque between the differential and the drive wheel. Its inner end is generally connected to the half-shaft gear through a spline, and the outer end is connected to the wheel hub.

 

The drive shaft is installed between the differential or final reducer gear and the wheel. It consists of two sets or one set of constant velocity joints, an intermediate shaft (core shaft) and other parts. It transmits the power of the engine to the wheels to drive the car.

The drive shaft assembly is responsible for transmitting the power of the engine to the axle of the wheel.

 

The two constant velocity universal joints (also known as ball cages) on the half-axle are divided into inner and outer. One end of the outer ball cage is installed on the wheel hub bearing of the car, and it is engaged with the inner ring of the wheel hub bearing through splines to transmit power. The connection method of the inner ball cage is also through spline engagement. The bearing diameter of the inner ball cage has a supporting and protective function, and it is engaged with the reducer gear through splines to transmit power.

Vulnerable parts of CV joint and drive shaft

Oil leakage from CV joint:

① New or old marks (oil sludge attached) ② Determine the leakage point

Replacement guide: Replace seals/CV joint

Dust boot oil leakage & cracking:

• New or old marks (oil sludge attached)
• Determine the leakage point.

Replacement guide: Replace the dust boot separately (can be replaced with a multi-function CV joint dust boot tool, no need to remove the CV joint half shaft)

Spline wear:

New or old marks (uniform or partial, sharp or smooth, whether the drive shaft has fallen off)

Replacement guide: Replace the CV joint (otherwise replace the assembly)

Drive shaft  breakage:

①The dust cover is easily damaged

②Check whether the universal joint and CV joint are damaged

Replacement guide: Replace the assembly