Buick Regal: Description and Operation
WHEEL DRIVE SHAFTS DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION
Wheel drive shafts are flexible assemblies consisting of an inner joint and an outer constant velocity joint connected by an axle shaft. The inner joint is completely flexible, and can plunge in and out. The outer joint is also flexible, but cannot plunge in and out. These drive axles are used to transmit rotational force from the transaxle to the front tire and wheel assemblies.
Seal and Clamp
The wheel drive shafts use inboard and outboard joint seals made of thermoplastic material, and clamps made of stainless steel. The functions of the seals are as follows:
- The seals protect the internal parts of the inboard and outboard joints.
- They protect the joint lubricating grease from surrounding detrimental atmospheric conditions; such as extreme temperatures, ozone gas, etc.
- They protect the joint lubricating grease from foreign materials; such as stones, dirt, water, salt, etc.
- The seals facilitate angular movement of the outboard joint.
- The seals facilitate angular and axial movement of the inboard joint.
The function of the clamps is as follows: Provide a leak proof connection at both the housing and the axle shaft for the inboard and outboard joints.
The thermoplastic material performs well against normal handing, operational wear and conditions. This material however, is not strong enough to withstand abusive handling or damage due to objects such as sharp tools or the sharp edge of any other surrounding component on the vehicle.
Inner Joint
The inner joints are of the tripot or CV-joint design without an over-extension limitation retainer. The inner joints incorporate a male spline which interlocks with the transaxle using snap rings.
Outer Joint
The outer joints are of the Rzeppa, constant velocity joint design. The shaft end which mates with the wheel bearing and hub assembly, incorporates a helical spline to assure a tight, press-type fit. This design assures that no end play will exist between the hub bearing and the drive shaft assembly for added durability and reduced bearing noise.
SPECIAL TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
SPECIAL TOOLS
DT-45859
J-45859
Axle Remover
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DT-51504
Seal Protector
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J-42572
Drive Shaft Seal Clamp Pliers
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Specifications, Visual Identification
SPECIFICATIONS
FASTENER SPECIFICATIONS
Single Use Non-Threaded Fasteners/Components
NOTE:
All fasteners/components listed in this table MUST BE DISCARDED and replaced
with
NEW after removal.
Applicat
SEE MORE:
Active Safety System Description and Operation
The active safety system is a comprehensive feature set designed to help a
driver avoid collisions or
reduce crash damage while driving, backing, and parking. The K124 Active Safety
Control Module is
the primary controller for the active safety system. The active safety control
module communicate
Auxiliary Audio Input Malfunction (IOB)
Diagnostic Instructions
Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this
diagnostic procedure.
Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic
approach.
Refer to Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provide an overview of each
diagnostic category.
Diagnosti
