Axle Shafts - Front: Description
NOTE:
This article covers independent front suspension front drive axles.
Axle shafts transfer power from transaxle or differential to drive wheels. All axle shafts consist of a shaft and flexible Constant Velocity (CV) joint at each end. Inner CV joint is splined or bolted to transaxle.
Inner and outer CV joints are enclosed in CV joint boots. Boots maintain lubrication and prevent contaminants from entering joint. Boots must be replaced when signs of leakage or cracks are present. Inner CV joint can be repaired, but outer CV joint must be replaced as an assembly.
NOTE:
Vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions use Tripot type joints on inside of drive axle and Double Offset Joint (DOJ) type joints on outside. Vehicles equipped with manual transmissions use DOJ type joints on both ends of drive axles.