A driveshaft is in charge of transferring engine ability from the Front Drive Shaft tranny to the differential and onto the drive wheels. A driveshaft can be one or two pieces with a middle support bearing in the middle. There are universal joints at either end of the driveshaft which act as flex joints that permit the differential to move upward when the car contacts a bump. A front side driveshaft yoke is utilized to connect to the transmission while a back driveshaft flange is used to hook up to the differential. On aged models the rear U joint bolts directly to the differential without utilizing a rear flange. On front side wheel drive cars there are two drive shafts which are referred to as CV axles.
Driveshaft themselves have very little problems with the exception of becoming bent if they come in contact with an obstruction. However the U joints could cause problems which are part of the driveshaft such as for example chirping and clucking when the automobile is moving or put into gear.
Something you need to know that may well not be thought of is when a driveshaft is eliminated the automobile will no longer maintain park. The automobile will roll as the link between your drive wheels and transmitting is taken away. You will need to raise the car or truck up using a ground jack and jackstays. Dress in protective eyewear and gloves before starting.
Mark the driveshaft orientation before you begin. This will help return the driveshaft to its primary position on the differential that may support avoid driveline vibrations once the driveshaft is reinstalled.
Using a plastic hammer gently shock the driveshaft loose out of the differential flange simply by striking the trunk yoke (U joint attach). At this stage the back 50 percent of the shaft will become free so hang onto it. On some autos you will see a center support which should be undone by taking away the two middle support mounting bolts. When removing a mature vehicle drive shaft employ electrical tape to wrap around the u joint cups consequently they don’t really fall off and discharge the glass needle bearings.
On front wheel drive cars the driveshaft isn’t used. The tranny and differential is put together into one product called a transaxle.
All shafts are reassembled with fresh universal joints and CV centering kits with grease fittings and so are then completely greased with the proper lubricant. All shafts will be straightened and pc balanced and analyzed to closer tolerances than 
OEM requirements.
The drive shaft may be the part on the lower right side of the picture. The various other end of it might be connected to the transmission.