Drive Shaft And Universal Joints; Rear Axle - Fleetwood Bounder 1987 Owner's Manual

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DRIVE SHAFT AND UNIVERSAL JOINTS
The drive shaft is a steel tube \lsed to transmit
power from the transmission to the 'differential. A
universal joint and splined slip yoke are located at the
transmission end of the shaft, where they are held in
alignment by a bushing in the transmission rear ex-
tension. The slip yoke permits fore and aft movement
of the drive shaft as the differential assembly moves
up and down. The spline is lubricated internally by
transmission lubricant or grease. An oil seal at the
transmission prevents leaks and protects the slip yoke
from dust, dirt and other harmful material.
The drive shaft is a balanced unit. Keep it free of
UNIIVE'HSI~L
JOINTS
HAr~~MISSION
REAR AXLE
,The rear axle assembly consists of the drive pinio!1,
ring gear. differential and axle shafts in,one housing.
The 'driv9'plnion' tiiin'sfers ~b\,liilr'frori1'iHe drive shaft
to the ring' gear which drives the axle shafts and rear
wheels.
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, , "iThe' differential' requires little maintenance. Check
the fluid level during chassis lubrication. Change the,
fluid ,as shown in the Maintenance Schedule for the
vehicle,
T
Q
chEl!<k djfferenti,!1 fluid leval, remove the plug.
If the fluid level is sufficient, fluid will seeP out of the
opening. If it
d~esn't,
add fluid as necessary. Replace
tha plug, making sure it is Properly seated.
undercoating and other foreign material that could
upset shaft balance.
On models that use two- or three-piece shafts, the
shafts are supported in rubber cushioned ball bearing
assemblies. These center bearings are permanently
lubricated and sealed.
Generally, the drive shaft and universal joints require
little maintenance. Inspect them periodically, or dur-
ing chassis lubrication. If the area around the univer-
sal joint caps appears dry, the bearings may need
relubrication or the universal joints may need to be
replaced. A failing universal joint often squeaks on
start up or klunks with direction change.
DIFFERENTIAL
AXLE
UNIVERSAL JOINT
PRC)PE'LL.E:R SHAFT
DIFFERENTIA,L ,
FILL
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