Question 1

How is power transmitted from the transaxle to the front wheels using axle shafts and CV joints on Pontiac Grand Prix?

Accepted Answer

The driveaxles which transmit power from the transaxle to the front wheels are two in number and each consists of a splined solid axle with CV joints on each end. There are two types of CV joints used: The outer joint, using ball bearings with an outer and inner race and permitting angular movements, is a double-offset type, while the inner CV joint, with a similar flexibility and the ability for the driveaxle, with movements in and out and known also as a spider bearing assembly, is called a tri-pot housing. These CV joints are sealed by rubber boots which are secured by clamps in order to prevent damage from water and dirt and these need to be checked routinely. The inner boots have several breather holes of about ¼ inch in diameter; these are meant for ventilation but may allow lub oil to spill when the joint is being tightened or loosened. Replacement of the CV joint boots on the spot is recommended to avoid deterioration of the joints, but replacement of boots calls for the removal of the driveaxles. It is recommended to pull the CV joint apart, clean it, inspect and re grease it whenever the boot is replaced to ensure that it is not contaminated with dirt or moisture because these are major cause of CV joint to fail prematurely. Bearing damages or wear in the CV joints may result in such features as drop in the lubricant, noise during turns, a thud on an acceleration from coasting position and systemic vibrations especially On the highways.

Question 2

What is the function of axle shafts, how do CV joints operate on Pontiac Fiero?

Accepted Answer

The power from the transaxle is taken to the rear wheels through drive axles which are splined solid axles provided with constant velocity (CV) joints at either end. The inner CV joint is a "tri-pot" design, and is completely flexible as it has an in-and-out movement; it is made up of a spider bearing assembly and has a tri-pot housing for angular movement. Ball bearings between an outer cage and an inner race constitute the outer joint; this is also flexible but it does not rotate or move in and out. In the rear driveaxle, and in all other cases except the LH side with automatic transaxle, a male spline is used, engaging with the splines on the transaxle gears through metal rings known as full-barrel snap-rings. The left in-board shaft attachment on the automatic transaxle employs a female spline that is located over a stub shaft from the transaxle. Further, the shaft end that connects with the knuckle and hub assembly is formed with a right hand helical spline to provide therefore, a press-type fit between the hub bearing on the one hand and the driveaxle assembly on the other hand so as to eliminate end float. It is therefore necessary to always check on the boots for signs of damage, leaking lubricant or cuts, the inside boots have breather holes, in case the joint is compressed on removal of the boots some lubricant might leak. It is required to replace the damaged CV joint boots as soon as possible to prevent the joint from getting damaged. Boot replacement requires the removal of the driveaxles; outer boots can be replaced with the driveaxles still engaged using an aftermarket boot kit with split boots. Signs that may suggest a problem with the condition of the CV joint are: leakage of lubricant, noise at the time of turning or-clicking sound while decelerating, thudding sound when accelerating from a coasting position, or any form of vibration when driving at high speeds on the highway.

Question 3

What are the components and symptoms of worn or damaged CV joints and driveaxle shafts on Pontiac Vibe?

Accepted Answer

Power is transmitted from the transaxle to the wheels through a pair of axle shafts. The inner end of each axle shaft is splined into the differential side gears. The outer ends of the axle shafts are splined to the axle hubs and locked in place by a large nut. The inner ends of the axle shafts are equipped with sliding constant velocity joints, which are capable of both angular and axial motion. Each inner joint assembly consists of a tripod bearing and a joint housing (outer race) in which the joint is free to slide in and out as the axle shaft moves up and down with the wheel. The joints can be disassembled and cleaned in the event of a boot failure, but if any parts are damaged, the joints must be replaced as a unit. When buying parts for an axle shaft, or a complete replacement axle shaft assembly, make sure you get the correct components. The outer CV joints consist of ball bearings running between an inner race and an outer cage, and are capable of angular but not axial movement. The outer joints should be cleaned, inspected, and repacked, but they cannot be disassembled. If an outer joint is damaged, it must be replaced along with the axle shaft. The boots should be inspected periodically for damage and leaking lubricant. Torn CV joint boots must be replaced immediately or the joints can be damaged. Boot replacement involves removal of the axle shaft. The most common symptom of worn or damaged CV joints, besides lubricant leaks, is a clicking noise in turns, a clunk when accelerating after coasting, and vibration at highway speeds. To check for wear in the CV joints and axle shafts, grasp each axle (one at a time) and rotate it in both directions while holding the CV joint housings, feeling for play indicating worn splines or sloppy CV joints. Also check the axle shafts for cracks, dents, and distortion.

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