Wheel drive shaft assemblies are flexible assemblies.
The wheel drive axles consist of the following components:
| • | An inner constant velocity joint. |
| • | An outer constant velocity joint. |
| • | A drive shaft bar. |
| The drive shaft bar connects the inner and outer constant velocity joints. |
The inner wheel drive shaft constant velocity joint is completely flexible. The joint also moves in and out.
The outer wheel drive shaft constant velocity joint is flexible, but will not move in and out.
Seal and Clamp
The constant velocity joint seals are made of a thermoplastic material.
The clamps on rear wheel drive axle seals are made of stainless steel.
The seals provide the following functions:
| • | Protection of the internal parts of the drive shaft constant velocity joints. |
| The seals protect the grease from the following sources of damage: |
| - | Harmful atmospheric conditions, such as extreme temperatures or ozone gas. |
| - | Foreign material, such as dirt or water. |
| • | Allows angular movement of the drive shaft constant velocity joints. |
Important: Protect the seals from sharp tools and from the sharp edges of the surrounding components.
Any damage to the seals or the clamps will result in leakage. Leakage will allow water to leak into the constant velocity joints. Damage will also allow grease to leak out of the constant velocity joints. Leakage may cause noisy rear wheel drive axle operation and eventual failure of the internal components.The clamps provide a leak proof connection for the shaft constant velocity joints at the following locations:
| • | The dust shield housing. |
| • | The rear wheel drive shaft bar. |
The thermoplastic material performs well under normal conditions and normal operation. However, the material is not strong enough to withstand the following conditions:
| • | Abusive handling. |
| • | Damage from sharp objects, such as tools or sharp edges of the surrounding vehicle components. |
Inner Joint
The inner joint is of a constant velocity design and bolted to the axle stub shaft.
The shaft end mating with the constant velocity joint incorporate a male spline to assure a tight press type fit.
The joint is identified by a single groove cut into the outer race.
Outer Joint
The outer joint is of a constant velocity design and bolted to the knuckle and hub assembly.
The shaft end mating with the constant velocity joint incorporate a male spline to assure a tight press type fit.
The joint is identified by two grooves cut into the outer race.
