This power is relayed to the wheels by means of a pair of axle shafts; the inner ends of which are splined on to the differential side gears while the outer ends are splined on to the axle hubs by the means of a large nut. The inner ends have constant velocity finger-sliding joints permitting delta and axial motions, the main components of which are the tripod bearing and the joint casing which in turn slides depending on the movement of the axle shaft in coordination with the wheel. Some of these joints can be unbolted for cleaning in case a boot is damaged but the damaged parts have to be replaced fully. When ordering parts be certain that some Corollas have Toyota manufactured axles, while some of them have axles from other suppliers. The outer CV joints have balls arranged between an inner race and an outer cage so that they can only move in angular motion and not in the axial direction. These can only be cleaned, inspected and repacked; they cannot be dismantled; if defective, it can only be replaced with the axle shaft as a complete assembly. It is therefore important to inspect the boots often for damage and leakage of lubricant; when the boots are torn they should be replaced to avoid joint damage. In many cases, boots are fitted to the axle shaft which means the boot will require replacement when the axle shaft is removed; however, it is possible to get split type of boots which can easily be replaced without the need of removing the axle shaft. Nevertheless, it is recommended to disassemble the axle shaft so that one can clean the CV joint, and eliminate any debris, which hastens wear out of the joints. Worn or damaged CV joints may present such symptoms as lubricant leakage, click at the time of making turns, clunk at the time of accelerating after coasting, and such vibrations while the car is at the highways. To check for wear, take each axle separately and rotate while holding the CV joint housings feeling for loose splines or a loose joint and visually inspect for cracks, dents and distortion on the axle shaft.
