Axle Shafts: Description
Neon uses an unequal length axle shaft system. See Fig 1 . The unequal length system has a short solid interconnecting shaft on the left side, with a longer tubular or solid interconnecting shaft on the right.
Axle shaft assemblies are 3-piece units. Each axle shaft has a tripod joint, an interconnecting shaft and a Rzeppa joint. The tripod joint is splined into the transaxle side gear. The Rzeppa joint has a stub shaft that is splined into the wheel hub. Axle shafts can be identified as shown in illustration. See Fig 2 .
Inner boots are made of different materials. The left inner boot is made of hytrel plastic. Right inner boot is made of high temperature application silicone.
CAUTION:
Inner boots are not interchangeable. Ensure boots of the correct material are used on proper side during replacement.