Section 1 (Axle Shafts - Front): Description
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 1986 Chevrolet Sprint and 1986 Chevrolet Spectrum. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Axle shafts transfer power from transaxle to driving wheels. All axle shafts consist of a shaft and flexible Constant Velocity (CV) joint at each end. Inner CV joint is splined or bolted to transaxle. Outer CV joint is splined to hub assembly and secured by axle shaft nut.
The inner and outer CV joint is enclosed by a CV joint boot. The boot maintains lubrication in the joint and prevents contamination from entering the joint. Boots must be replaced when signs of leakage or cracks are present. The inner CV joint can be repaired with out replacing assembly. The outer CV joint must be replaced as an assembly.
On all other models, inner CV joint is splined into differential side gear and held with a retaining ring.