The drive shaft case is an essential part of a vehicle’s transmission system that is often overlooked.
Although small in size, this part plays a crucial role in protecting and ensuring the proper functioning of CV joints.
Like any mechanical component, they are subject to wear and tear over time and can present problems that require immediate attention. Find out what they are and what you should do.
What is a Drive Shaft Case?
The drive shaft case is a self-made rubber part that protects the CV joints of the transmission shaft and differential.
What is the Drive Shaft Case for?
Its main purpose is to protect impurities from entering the transmission shaft that could affect driving.
Inside the bellows, there are 3 spheres with lubricant that make it impossible for the vehicle to function normally when they come into contact with impurities.
How does the Drive Shaft Case Work?
As a rule, vehicles have 2 drive shaft case per axle, with one covering the CV joint on the wheel side and the other the differential side joint.
Since they are used in the transmission system, they will only be found on the wheels that provide the vehicle with front or rear-wheel drive.
In the case of four-wheel drive vehicles, the drive shaft case are located on both axles.
How Long does a Drive Shaft Case Last?
If you drive defensively and maintain the drive shaft case correctly, they can last between 60 and 70 thousand kilometers.
However, it is important to remember that adverse conditions such as rough roads, extreme temperatures and exposure to chemicals can accelerate the wear of the bellows.
In addition, if the bellows are not installed correctly or lubricated regularly, their lifespan can decrease.
What Happens if the Drive Shaft Case Get Damaged?
When a drive shaft case is broken, the consequences involve dirt getting inside and lubricant leaking out.
If this situation is not rectified soon, the CV joints can break. If the problem persists, the bearing may bend or come loose, damaging the differential.
How Can you Tell if the Drive Shaft Case are Damaged?
The first step to finding out if the part is damaged is to carry out a visual inspection.
To do this, look for the wheel bellows on the drive wheels, whether they are front, rear or all four. In the case of the driveshaft bellows, look for them next to the wheel.
Also look for grease stains on the ground or inside the rim of the car, as these may indicate that there is a break in the bellows.
In addition to the visual inspection, there are other signs to look out for.
What Are the Symptoms of a Damaged Drive Shaft Case?
Signs of wear can vary depending on the type and severity of the damage. However, some of the most common signs of drive shaft case wear are:
- Cracks;
- Loss of lubricant;
- Deformation or irregular wear;
- Loss of flexibility;
- Noises during driving or acceleration.
Can I Drive With a Damaged Drive Shaft Case?
Driving with a damaged drive shaft case is not recommended, as it can lead to more serious vehicle problems.
By allowing dirt and dust to enter the CV joints, you will cause premature wear on the internal parts of the transmission. As a result, repair costs are higher.
On the other hand, there is a risk of the transmission failing, which can result in a loss of power and control of the vehicle. In more serious cases, this can lead to an accident.
How to Replace the Drive Shaft Case?
This process involves care and precision, as well as the need to have the right tool to replace drive shaft case. Generally speaking, the steps for replacing this part involve:
- Lift the vehicle with the help of a hydraulic jack and support it on car jacks stands;
- Remove the wheel that corresponds to the CV joint you want to replace the bellows with;
- Dismantle the CV joint and the necessary components to gain access to it. To do this, loosen the drive shaft case clamps;
- Carefully clean the area around the CV joint and install the new part, using a cone for mounting drive shaft case;
- Reassemble all the components you removed to gain access to the CV joints;
- Reinstall the wheels, tightening the nuts with a lug wrenches.
Can I Replace the Drive Shaft Case at Home?
Although the process seems simple, it is not recommended that you replace this part at home.
To ensure the process is carried out safely, it’s best to go to a specialized repair shop.
What is the Price of a Drive Shaft Case?
The cost of a new drive shaft case depends on the type of car, as well as whether it is an original part or a white label.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace the Drive Shaft Case?
The cost of replacing this part varies depending on the garage you go to, which will be based on the time it takes to replace it.
The average price for this service is 50 euros. You should also add the cost of steering alignment, which is advisable in these cases.
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