Drive shafts are a very precision balanced and weighted component because they rotate at very high speeds and torque values to turn the wheels. A worn drive shaft can cause problems that affect the drivability of the vehicle and will create symptoms that alert the driver of potential issues that need to be addressed.
THE TWO MOST COMMON SYMPTOMS ARE:
1. Intense Vibrations from Underneath the Vehicle
The most common causes of excessive vibration are worn U-joints, slip splines, out-of-balance components, yokes out of phase, or misaligned angles. Excessive vibration of the drive shaft can also cause accelerated wear on other drivetrain components. This can lead to additional issues down the road.
2. Abnormal Noises
If the bushing or bearing that supports the drive shaft or the drive shaft U-joints wear out or fail, they can interfere with the unit’s ability to rotate correctly. This may result in unusual rattling, clunking, or even scraping sounds from under the vehicle. Any noises such as these are indicators the vehicle should be serviced as soon as possible. If you suspect that your drive shaft is having an issue, have the vehicle inspected by a professional technician to determine if the drive shaft should be replaced.
RECOMMENDED SOLUTION
When addressing drive shaft issues, it’s often the best practice to replace the entire assembly. Just replacing individual components typically only addresses the symptom and not the root cause.
Key Advantages of Choosing a New Drive Shaft Assembly Include:
Improved Performance:
· A new Drive shaft can help minimize vibrations and ensure a smoother ride.
Increased Fuel Efficiency:
· A new replacement OE and properly balanced driveshaft can contribute to better fuel efficiency by minimizing energy losses in the drivetrain.
Enhanced Safety:
· A new driveshaft can improve overall vehicle safety by reducing the risk of other component failure or malfunction, which could lead to accidents or breakdowns.
Longevity and Reliability:
· A new driveshaft assembly includes all new components including u-joints, dust boots, clamps, grease and more that provide increased longevity and reliability.
Reduced Maintenance Costs:
· A new driveshaft can save money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent repairs and maintenance associated with old worn-out components.
Improved Balance and Alignment:
· A new driveshaft assembly will provide better balance and alignment, reducing the risk of uneven tire wear and handling issues.
All TrakMotive® New Drive shaft assemblies include all new components and are 100% precision machine balanced to meet OEM specifications.
For more detailed information, explore the benefits of TrakMotive’s 100% New Drive Shaft offering at: https://www.trakmotive.com/products/drive-shaft-assemblies/