Axle Shaft Assembly: Description and Operation

Fig. 1 Exploded View Of Tri-Pot Drive Axle.:

Front drive axles are completely flexible assemblies consisting of an inner and outer constant velocity joint connected by an axle shaft, Fig. 1. The inner joint is completely flexible and has the capability of in-and-out movement. The outer joint is also flexible but cannot move in-and-out. All drive axles, except the left hand inboard end on automatic transaxles models, incorporate a male spline and interlock with the transaxle gears through the use of barrel-type snap rings. The left hand inboard shaft attachment on automatic transaxle models, utilizes a female spline which installs over a stub shaft extending out of the transaxle.
The drive axle spline that mates with the knuckle and hub assembly is a helical type spline which provides a tight press fit and assures that no endplay will exist between the hub bearing and driveshaft assembly.