Non-Turbo Models
Non-turbo models equipped with either an automatic or manual transaxle use an unequal-length halfshaft system. See Fig 1. The system incorporates 2 halfshaft assemblies (left and right) that consist of an inner and outer Constant Velocity (CV) joint and a solid interconnecting shaft. The right halfshaft is longer than the left due to transaxle and powertrain designs.
Halfshafts on both the right and left sides of the vehicle use a tuned rubber damper weight mounted to the interconnecting shaft. The damper weight applications vary by which side of the vehicle the halfshaft is located on and the transaxle application of the vehicle. When replacing a halfshaft, ensure the replacement halfshaft has the same damper weight as the original.
Both halfshaft assemblies use the same type of inner and outer joints. The inner joint of both half shaft assemblies is a tripod joint, and the outer joint of both halfshaft assemblies is a Rzeppa joint. Both tripod joints and Rzeppa joints are true CV joint assemblies. The inner tripod joint allows for the changes in halfshaft length through the jounce and rebound travel of the front suspension. Both outer CV joints have a stub shaft that is splined into the wheel hub and retained by a hub nut, nut lock, spring washer and cotter pin. See Fig 2.