DESCRIPTION

The inner joints of both half shaft assemblies are tripod joints. The outer joints of both assemblies are Rzeppa Joints. The tripod joints are true constant velocity (CV) joint assemblies, which allow for the changes in half shaft length through the jounce and rebound travel of the rear suspension.

The inner tripod joint of both half shafts is splined into the rear differential assembly and retained by a snap ring. The outer CV joint has a stub shaft that is splined into the wheel hub and retained by a steel hub nut.

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING

HALFSHAFT

VEHICLE INSPECTION

1. Check for grease in the vicinity of the inboard tripod joint and outboard CV joint; this is a sign of inner or outer joint seal boot or seal boot clamp damage.

NOISE OR VIBRATION IN TURNS

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

• Damaged outer CV or inner tripod joint seal boot or seal boot clamps. This will result in the loss and/or contamination of the joint grease, resulting in inadequate lubrication of the joint.
• Noise may also be caused by another component of the vehicle coming in contact with the half shafts.

CLUNKING NOISE DURING ACCELERATION

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

• A torn seal boot on the inner or outer joint of the half shaft assembly.
• A loose or missing clamp on the inner or outer joint of the half shaft assembly.
• A damaged or worn half shaft CV joint.

SHUDDER OR VIBRATION DURING ACCELERATION

This problem could be a result of:

• A worn or damaged half shaft inner tripod joint.
• A sticking tripod joint spider assembly (inner tripod joint only).
• Improper wheel alignment.

VIBRATION AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS

This problem could be a result of:

• Foreign material (mud, etc.) packed on the backside of the wheel(s).
• Out of balance tires or wheels.
• Improper tire or wheel runout.