Manufacturer specifications apply. This page explains concepts only. Torque values, clearances, preload, backlash ranges and procedures vary by axle model and must come from the vehicle or component manufacturer's service information. This directory does not publish repair specifications.
What this service covers
The driveshaft (propeller shaft) carries power from the transmission or transfer case to the axle. It must be straight, correctly phased and balanced, because it spins at several times wheel speed.
Driveshaft shops repair tubes and yokes, replace U-joints and center support bearings, build custom-length shafts, and balance the finished assembly.
Common signs
- Vibration that increases with road speed
- Clunk when taking up drive
- Squeak or chirp from a dry U-joint
- Vibration after a lift kit, axle swap or driveshaft repair
What the work usually involves
- Inspect U-joints, slip yoke, center bearing and tube for damage
- Check driveshaft runout and driveline operating angles
- Repair or replace tube and yokes, install new joints with correct phasing
- Dynamically balance the shaft and recheck on the vehicle
Steps vary by vehicle and component design. Values and procedures come from the manufacturer's service information.
Vehicles this applies to
Rear-wheel-drive and 4x4 vehicles, vans, and medium- and heavy-duty trucks; also some agricultural and industrial equipment.
Key terms
Driveline operating angle
The angle at each U-joint between the two shafts it connects. A standard cross-type U-joint speeds up and slows down slightly within each turn when it operates at an angle; drivelines are designed so these fluctuations cancel out. Allowable angles come from the vehicle and driveline manufacturer.
Driveshaft runout
How far a spinning driveshaft tube deviates from turning perfectly true, measured with a dial indicator. Excessive runout causes vibration; limits are set by the manufacturer.
U-joint phasing
The alignment of the yokes at each end of a driveshaft. In a typical two-joint shaft the yoke ears are in the same plane so that one joint cancels the speed fluctuation of the other. An out-of-phase shaft, for example a slip yoke reinstalled one spline off, can cause vibration.
Choosing a shop
- Confirm the shop works on your vehicle class and, for trucks, your axle make.
- Ask what parts they install (new, remanufactured or rebuilt) and what warranty applies.
- Check the listing's verification status and date in this directory.