Driveshaft & U Joints

Driveshaft A drive shaft, drive shaft, driving shaft, tail shaft is a mechanical component that transmits torque and rotation and is usually used to link certain parts of a drivetrain that are not directly connected due to distance. U Joints A universal joint is a joint or coupling of rigid rods whose axes are arranged one to the other. Generally, this type of joint is used in shafts which transmit rotary motion.

Do you know how the driveshaft & U joints actually work? All you have to do is to have a look below and then you will be able to understand everything. How Do Driveshaft Work? A torque is the force which is transmitted by the drive shaft. The drive shafts are made flexible because they have to face a lot of conditions which could cause them to bend or break. It is very important that the driveshaft should be straight as well as balanced. If this would not happen, then it would result in vibration. This can damage the parts which are connected to the drive shaft. How Do U Joints Work? A "U" joint is utilized at the rear of the automobile and is connected to the differential via the drive shaft. The U joint is situated at the opposite side of the driveshaft. A duplicate (in most cases) U joint is located at the opposite side of the driveshaft which is transmission or transfer case. If you want to inspect a U joint, then the driveshaft should be removed and the U joint should be moved in every direction looking for hard spots or excessive play. There would be a presence of rust coloured powder if there is a failure in the U joint and it requires replacement.