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Intermediate shaft center bearing assembly
Authoring Template
Working principle of the halfshafts
- The halfshafts transmit torque from the engine to the wheels.
- In order to allow vertical movement of the wheels and engine, the halfshafts operate at varying lengths and angles.
- The tripode joints allow for changes in halfshaft length during axial movements.
Handling halfshafts
CAUTION:The inner constant velocity (CV) joint must not be bent at more than 18 degrees, the outer CV joint must not be bent at more than 45 degrees.
NOTE:Do not place the tripode joint under tension.
If removing/installing and disassembling/assembling the halfshafts, the following points should be observed:
- Check polished surfaces and splines for damage.
- Do not allow the boots and the clamps to come into contact with sharp edges, the engine or the exhaust system.
- Do not drop the halfshaft as this can damage the inside of the CV joint boots without showing any signs of damage on the outside.
- Do not use halfshafts as levering tools for the installation of other components. The halfshafts must always hang freely.
- The tripode joint can be damaged by impact from outside the joint housing.
Wheel balancing, front
CAUTION:Using a portable wheel balancing unit when the vehicle is lifted completely off the ground will result in damage to the tripode joints or boots, as the joint is bent at a greater angle than its normal operating range. This results in overheating of the joint.
To use a portable balancing unit position a trolley jack under the suspension arm opposite the wheel which is being balanced. This prevents the joint from being bent too much when the vehicle is raised.
Where possible, wheels should be removed for balancing, and balanced using a stationary wheel balancing unit.
Raising the vehicle
CAUTION:Never use the CV joints or halfshafts as jacking points.
Towing the vehicle
NOTE:Do not attach the tow rope to the halfshaft.
Underbody protection and corrosion prevention
NOTE:The boots should be covered during application of underbody protection or corrosion prevention.
Foreign matter on the boots can cause premature ageing of the material. Foreign matter on the halfshafts can cause imbalance.
