What a Driveline Service Includes
With thirty thousand parts in a vehicle, all visits to the mechanic won’t be spent checking every last item. There are major lines that require different component checks. Here let’s discuss what a driveline service includes.
Differential
The differential is the grouping of gears responsible for transferring the engine’s power from the transmission to the rear wheels. In addition, it allows the wheels on either side to turn at different speeds to maintain smooth driving around corners on dry pavement.
Front vs. Rear
It is possible to have differentials on both the front and rear axles of a vehicle. They may function differently depending on whether the car is front-wheel, rear-wheel, or all-wheel drive. Regardless, they are an essential part of the axle assembly.
Fluid
Intended to lubricate the gears, the fluid breaks down over time from heat and wear. It’s meant to prevent the differential wearing to the point of metal-on-metal contact, as this would disallow differential turning. In a rear-wheel drive car, the fluid can be drained and replaced on the rear axle. However, transmission fluid is used to lubricate the gears in a front-wheel vehicle due to the differential being housed in the transmission.
Warning Signs
Typically, the first sign of a differential problem is strange sounds while the vehicle is in motion. Whirring or howling during deceleration may be a sign that failure is imminent.
Driveshaft
The driveshaft is the tube that transfers power from the transmission to the rear differential. Connected on each end by U-joints, the driveshaft transfers the torque and rotation of the engine into vehicle motion.
Warning Signs
A common warning sign that something has gone wrong with your driveshaft is hearing a clunking sound while driving. Vibrations that worsen with increased speed are also an indication. U-joints that are moveable or rusty also signal an issue that needs attention.
Inspection Intervals
There isn’t really a specifically recommended time to have your driveshaft inspected. Naturally, an inspection should be done anytime there are abnormal sounds or vibrations, but otherwise, inspection should be done whenever other parts of the driveline are being serviced.
Transfer Case
Also known as a center differential in a 4x4, the transfer case directs power from the transmission to both front and rear wheels. Depending on the system, the transfer case can engage electronically or manually.
Regularity
The owner’s manual of a vehicle should have a recommended schedule for transfer case fluid changes. Typically, transfer case fluid should be changed every thirty to seventy thousand miles.
Issue Causes
Stressing the transfer case beyond its limits could cause a break. Stress can be put on this component by using tires of different sizes or differing levels of air pressure. Additionally, using four-wheel drive in high or low gear when driving on dry pavement will cause stress to the transfer case, leading to failure.
Warning Signs
Other warning signs entail odd noises, improper or erratic gear shifting, and leaks from the transfer case. Grinding sounds can indicate low fluid or gear wear.
Drive Shafts of Tulsa is more than a drive shaft repair shop. Though we specialize in repairing and building custom drive shafts, we pride ourselves on providing other drive shaft parts and drive shaft modification services. We also supply pertinent information on drivetrain components and what a driveline service includes to help you further understand the importance of maintaining these areas of your vehicle.