Driveline troubleshooting tips

The driveshaft is typically composed of three main elements: 

• A fixed external constant velocity joint (CV joint).
• An internal plunging velocity joint.
• A shaft that has a reciprocal connection.

To ensure the best possible functioning of the driveshaft, the right design decisions must be made. 

Shaft designs:

• Work when overall system noise and vibration requirements are met.
• No optimal design or combination of features are needed.
• Different design choices can meet the same requirements.

Driveshafts can be equipped with:

• Hollow or solid bars
• Dumpers, either external or internal to the bar
• A bearing
• A flange to host the bearing

Safety precautions

Before removing the driveshaft and CV joint, you must:

• Raise the vehicle.
• Loosen the retaining bolt.
• Remove the wheel.

Never move the vehicle when the wheel-bearing hexagon nut or the retaining bolt is loose, as it will damage the wheel bearing and shorten its lifespan. To simplify drive-shaft removal, undo the securing bolts between the wheel-bearing housing and the lower knuckle ball joint. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended procedures for removal and replacement. Always support the vehicle per garage health and safety standards.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the steps when a customer reports grease leaking under the vehicle?

1. Carefully inspect the wheel side and gearbox side of the CV-joint boot for breaks, rips, and tears
2. If the grease is very dirty, check the CV joint to ensure it isn’t damaged.
3. Remove the damaged boot.
4. Remove all grease from the CV joint
5. Refill the CV joint with grease.
6. Replace and fit a new, appropriate boot.
7. Tighten the boot clamps with the proper tools. 

Q: What are the steps when a customer reports noise while driving?

For a general noise coming from the wheel corner, inspect the hub.  If normal:

1. Examine the boots and replace any with cracks.
2. Examine the plunging movement of the gearbox-side CV joint, and replace if needed.
3. Examine the wheel-side CV joint with the wheel free to move to stimulate steering. Noise means replace the CV joint.

Q: What are the steps when noise happens as the vehicle starts moving forward or reverse?

1. Try to recreate the noise with the vehicle off and the gear engaged.
2. If the noise occurs, replace the entire driveshaft. 

Q: What are the steps when a customer reports problems only during steering?

1. Examine the boots and replace any with cracks.
2. Examine the wheel-side CV joint with the wheel free to move to stimulate steering. Noise means replace the CV joint.

The SKF driveline tools range.

SKF parts, kits and tools

SKF supports customers with top quality, original equipment drivetrain kits and tools 

CV joint kit (VKJA)

SKF CV joint kits are made to the highest quality standards, and include a complete set of premium-quality, installation components. Plus, joint dust covers are pre-assembled.

Driveshaft kit (VKJC)

SKF driveshaft kits are new—not remanufactured—and include a pre-assembled driveshaft, inner and outer CV joints, boots, clamps, nuts, and grease.

Boot kit (VKJP)

SKF neoprene universal boots feature extended ridges for greater movement flexibility, high sealing capacity, and long, trouble-free service. Each kit includes clamps, nuts/bolts, and grease where needed.

Driveline tools (VKN 400, 401, 402)

Step up from standard cutters and clamps with SKF driveline tools (400/401). The pneumatic expander fits CV boots up to 115mm (4.52in) without CV-joint/driveshaft removal,* or physical effort.