Drive Axle

Vehicle Inspection 

-- Check for grease in the vicinity of the inboard tripod joint and outboard CV joint; this is a sign of inner or outer joint seal boot or seal boot clamp damage.

Noise or Vibration in Turns

A clicking noise or a vibration in turns could be caused by one of the following conditions:

• Damaged outer CV or inner tripod joint seal boot or seal boot clamps. This will result in the loss and/or contamination of the joint grease, resulting in inadequate lubrication of the joint.
• Noise may also be caused by another component of the vehicle coming in contact with the drive axles.

Clunking Noise During Acceleration

This noise may be a result of one of the following conditions:

• A torn seal boot on the inner or outer joint of the drive axle assembly.
• A loose or missing clamp on the inner or outer joint of the drive axle assembly.
• A damaged or worn drive axle CV joint.

Shudder or Vibration During Acceleration

This problem could be a result of:

• A worn or damaged drive axle inner tripod joint.
• A sticking tripod joint spider assembly (inner tripod joint only).
• Improper wheel alignment.

Vibration at Highway Speeds

This problem could be a result of:

• Foreign material (mud, etc.) packed on the backside of the wheels.
• Out of balance tires or wheels.
• Improper tire or wheel runout.