1. Jack up the rear of the vehicle and support it on props, support the front wheels with wheel chocks.
2. Climbing under the car, visually assess the condition of the cardan shaft. In case of detection of deformations and cracks, replace the shaft.
3. Check the front and rear ends of the shaft for signs of leaks. If necessary, replace the corresponding oil seal (ov) (see Section Replacing the differential drive gear oil seal).
4. Without getting out from under the car, ask the assistant to turn the wheels of the car, thereby causing the rotation of the cardan shaft, the hinges should turn freely and silently. Evaluate the condition of the rubber element of the center bearing assembly, replace the defective components.
5. The condition of the universal joints can also be checked with a stationary shaft, urgently grab each of the sections of the hinge and try to rotate them relative to each other, the presence of any noticeable play indicates wear on the internal components of the hinge assembly.
6. Estimate reliability of a tightening of fixing bolts of a connecting flange.
7. Check the shafts for leaks from the sliding sleeve seals.
8. Take this opportunity to also check the drive shafts/axles for signs of leakage. Assess the condition of the protective covers of the constant velocity joints. If necessary, replace the differential seals.