According to Tongxin Transmission, an automotive drive shaft is generally a circular component that can be connected, assembled, moved, and rotated. It is typically made of lightweight alloy steel tubing with excellent torsional resistance. Structurally, it usually consists of a shaft tube, a telescopic sleeve, and universal joints. As a high-speed, lightly-supported rotating body, the drive shaft’s dynamic balance is crucial. All drive shafts undergo dynamic balance testing and adjustment on a balancing machine before leaving the factory.

The automotive drive shaft operates through the coordination of the shaft tube, telescopic sleeve, and universal joints. It is the power-transmitting shaft in the universal transmission device. For front-engine, rear-wheel-drive vehicles, it transmits rotation from the transmission to the final drive. The drive shaft may consist of multiple sections connected by universal joints—key components responsible for driving and steering between the front axle half-shafts and the wheels.

How to Maintain the Drive Shaft

Drive shafts are often overlooked by car owners, but issues like strong vehicle resonance or "creaking" noises during startup or acceleration should not be underestimated. Mastering basic knowledge of drive shafts and proper maintenance methods is essential.
Composed of the shaft tube, telescopic sleeve, and universal joints, the drive shaft works with the engine, transmission, and drive axle to transmit power to the wheels, generating driving force. Some vehicle drive shafts are located between the transmission and wheel hubs, at the front lower part of the vehicle—an area prone to splashing mud and sewage. Therefore, sealing and protecting the drive shaft from contamination is critical.

When the vehicle is in motion, the wheels bounce up and down, while the inner end of the drive shaft (connected to the transmission) has minimal movement. To balance power transmission, constant-velocity universal joints are used at both ends of the drive shaft: ball cage universal joints on the tire side, and tripod universal joints on the differential side for most vehicles. The tripod universal joint features a simple structure and is much more cost-effective than other types.

To ensure the drive shaft’s normal operation and extend its service life, note the following:
Never start the vehicle in a high gear.
Never release the clutch abruptly by stepping hard on the pedal.
Avoid overloading and speeding.
Regularly inspect the drive shaft’s operating condition.

Frequently check the tightness of the drive shaft hanger, the condition of supporting rubber parts, the tightness of drive shaft connections, and whether the drive shaft is deformed.
That’s all for today’s introduction. Thank you for watching, and we’ll see you next time!