Axle Shaft Assembly: Testing and Inspection

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - HALFSHAFT

HALFSHAFT VISUAL INSPECTION

1. Check for grease in the vicinity of the inboard and outboard C/V joint. If grease is present, this may be a sign that the inner or outer boots, or the retaining clamps are damaged.
2. A light film of grease may appear on the inner C/V boot; this is considered normal and should not require replacement of the boot. All inner C/V boots are made of silicone rubber; which will allow weeping of the joint lubricant to pass through the boot while in operation.

NOISE AND/OR VIBRATION IN TURNS


A clicking noise and/or a vibration could be caused by one of the following conditions:

1. Damaged inner or outer C/V boots or retaining clamps. This will result in the loss and/or contamination of the joint grease, resulting in inadequate lubrication of the joint.
2. Noise may also be caused by another component of the vehicle coming in contact with the halfshafts.

CLUNKING NOISE DURING ACCELERATION


This noise may be a result of one of the following conditions:

1. A torn boot on the inner or outer C/V joint of the halfshaft assembly.
2. A loose or missing retaining clamp on the inner or outer C/V boot of the halfshaft assembly.
3. A damaged or worn halfshaft C/V joint.

SHUDDER OR VIBRATION DURING ACCELERATION


This problem could be a result of:

1. A worn or damaged halfshaft inner joint.
2. A sticking C/V joint assembly.
3. Improper wheel alignment.

VIBRATION AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS


This problem could be a result of:

1. Foreign material (mud, snow, etc. packed on the backside of the wheels).
2. Out of balance tires or wheels.
3. Improper tire and/or wheel runout.