Why is my driveshaft popping?
Driveshaft problems can be spotted from the moment you put the vehicle in gear to pull it into a bay. As the power is transmitted from the transmission to the rear axle, the slack from worn or damaged components is taken up, resulting in a sudden crunch or pop.
Can you drive with a messed up drive shaft?
Driving an automobile with a defective or damaged driveshaft is potentially dangerous. If there is any sign of trouble, the car should be taken in to a certified mechanic for immediate inspection for repair or replacement. Replacing or repairing a drive shaft can be very expensive.
Is replacing a drive shaft hard?
It’s not hard to remove a driveshaft if you’ve worked under a car before. It’ll probably take more time to safely raise the car than remove the shaft. Scot Zediker (Scot&Kate here) and I were autocrossing his car at the Solo II Nationals this year. His shaft started to clunk the day before we ran.
How can I tell if I have a problem with my driveshaft?
One of the first symptoms of a problem with the driveshaft is vibrations coming from underneath the vehicle. If the driveshaft universal joint (U-joint) or bushings wear out, it can cause excessive driveshaft vibration.
What happens if the bushing on your driveshaft fails?
If the bushing or bearing that supports the driveshaft or the driveshaft U-joints wear out or fail, they can interfere with the driveshaft’s ability to rotate correctly. This may result in unusual rattling, clunking, scraping, or even squeaking sounds from underneath the vehicle.
How is the series of a driveshaft determined?
The “series” of a driveshaft or universal joint is determined by the actual dimensions of the u-joint. While the front and rear u-joint can be of two different sizes the shaft is only as strong as the smaller one. The 1310 series u-joint measures approximately 3 1/4 inches wide.
How can a driveshaft affect the drivability of a vehicle?
When the driveshaft has any sort of issue, it can affect the drivability of the vehicle. Usually, a problem with the driveshaft will produce 4 symptoms that alert the driver of an issue that should be addressed. 1. Intense Vibrations from Underneath the Vehicle