What should I check when buying a used drive shaft?
Essential inspection points for evaluating a used drive shaft before purchase.
When evaluating a used drive shaft, focus on these critical inspection points:
- Physical Inspection:
- • Shaft straightness check
- • U-joint condition
- • Center bearing integrity
- • Spline wear patterns
- Critical Components:
- • Universal joint movement
- • CV joint condition (if equipped)
- • Yoke condition
- • Balance weights integrity
- Signs of Damage:
- • Bent shaft indicators
- • Rust or corrosion
- • Dent assessment
- • Paint condition changes
- Measurement Verification:
- • Overall length
- • Diameter specifications
- • Yoke spline count
- • Flange bolt pattern
Request detailed measurements and inspection photos to ensure proper fitment.
