Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Driveline System: Notes
The drivetrain's power is generated by the engine and delivered to the transmission. The driveline transfers the engine torque through the driveshaft to the axle.
The driveshaft is connected to the output shaft flange on the transmission and to the axle pinion flange. Flex couplers and alignment bushings are used at the ends of the driveshaft to allow for any angular motion. The two-piece driveshaft has a slip spline, the spline connects the driveshaft halves and is supported by a center bearing. Engine torque enters the axle through the drive pinion, which rotates the ring gear. The ring gear is mounted to the differential case, which contains the gears that transmit power to the axle halfshafts. The differential case is retained by two differential carrier bearings. There is one differential bearing cap while the right carrier bearing is enclosed by the differential housing. A selective snap ring is used instead of shims on the right side of the differential housing. The axle halfshafts rotate the drive wheels.
The engine angle is built into the engine mounts. If the flex coupler operating angles are out of specification, the engine mounts must be inspected for damage.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.