General information about drive shafts and cardan transmissions [Toyota RAV4 XA10]

Torque from the gearbox to the drive wheels is transmitted via drive shafts, and on all-wheel drive vehicles also via a cardan shaft.

Each drive shaft consists of three parts: the inner and outer constant velocity joints (CV joints) and the shaft itself.

The splined part of the outer joint is inserted into the wheel hub and secured with a nut. CV joints are lubricated with consistent grease, which is replaced only when the joint is disassembled.

The covers should be checked periodically for damage and grease leakage.

Grease leaks from the joint when the protective cover is torn or the clamps that secure it become loose.

Replace torn CV joint boots immediately, otherwise the joints may be damaged. Replacing the boot involves removing the drive shaft.

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Vibration and increased noise when starting off, engine braking and on sharp turns occur due to wear of constant velocity joints, splined shaft connections and when the wheel mounting bolts are loose.