Cadillac 20768561 Output Shaft

Power is transmitted from the front differential/axle to the front wheels through a pair of driveaxles, with the inner end of each driveaxle bolted to an axleshaft connected to the differential side gears, while the outer end features a stub shaft splined to the front hub and bearing assembly, secured by a large nut. The inner ends are equipped with sliding constant velocity (CV) joints that allow for both angular and axial motion, consisting of a tripot-type bearing and a housing that enables sliding as the driveaxle moves with the wheel. In contrast, the outer ends have ball-and-cage type CV joints, which permit angular movement but not axial, featuring six caged ball bearings between an inner race and the housing. Common symptoms of worn or damaged CV joints include lubricant leaks, a clicking noise during turns, a clunk when accelerating after coasting, and vibration at highway speeds. To check for wear, grasp each axle individually and rotate it in both directions while holding the CV joint housings, feeling for play that indicates worn splines or sloppy joints, and inspect the driveaxle shafts for cracks, dents, and distortion.