Toyota 04375-0C041 Spider Kit, UNIVERSA

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A driveshaft is a tube or a pair of tubes that transmit power between the transmission and the differential. Universal joints are located at either end of the driveshaft, and a third U-joint is employed just behind the center on two-piece driveshafts. The driveshaft is attached to the rear differential by a companion flange. On 4WD models, the front driveshaft is attached to the front differential in the same way. Driveshafts on 2WD models employ a splined yoke, known as a slip yoke or sleeve yoke, at the front, which slips into the extension housing of the transmission. This arrangement allows the driveshaft to slide back and forth within the transmission during vehicle operation. An oil seal prevents leakage of fluid at this point and keeps dirt from entering the transmission. If leakage is evident at the front of the driveshaft, replace the oil seal. On 4WD models, each driveshaft is attached to the transfer case by a companion flange. Once a front or rear driveshaft has been removed, either companion flange can be removed from the transfer case to replace the companion seal(s). On two-piece driveshafts, center bearings support the driveline. The center bearing is a ball-type bearing mounted in a rubber cushion attached to a frame crossmember. The bearing is pre-lubricated and sealed at the factory. On two-piece driveshafts, a sleeve yoke is employed in the rear driveshaft section. The driveshaft assembly requires periodic lubrication. Since the driveshaft is a balanced unit, it's important that no undercoating, mud, etc. be allowed to stay on it. When the vehicle is raised for service, it's a good idea to clean the driveshaft and inspect it for any obvious damage. Also, make sure the small weights used to originally balance the driveshaft are in place and securely attached. Whenever the driveshaft is removed, it must be reinstalled in the same relative position to preserve the balance. Problems with the driveshaft are usually indicated by a noise or vibration while driving the vehicle. A road test should verify if the problem is the driveshaft or another vehicle component. If you suspect trouble, inspect the driveline.

To replace the U-joint in the driveshaft, first, remove the driveshaft and place it on a bench equipped with a vise. Mark the shaft and yoke for proper reassembly and then remove the snap-rings from the U-joint, with outer snap-rings being removable using small pliers. Place a piece of pipe or a large socket over one of the bearing cups and another socket of slightly smaller diameter on the opposite bearing cup, then use the vise to force the cup out, stopping just before it comes completely out of the yoke. Finish removing the cup using a vise or large pliers. Repeat the process for the other side. Once the bearing cups are removed, lift the U-joint from the yoke, clean the yokes thoroughly, and remove any metal burrs from the yoke bores. Pack the new U-joint bearing cups with grease and position the U-joint body in the yoke, partially installing one bearing cup in the yoke. Ensure the grease fitting, if present, points in the same direction as the opposite end's grease fitting on the driveshaft. Start the U-joint body into the bearing cups, align them, and press them into position without damaging the dust seals. Install the snap-rings, and if they are hard to seat, tap the driveshaft yoke with a hammer to facilitate seating and center the U-joint. Lubricate the U-joint if it has a grease fitting, reinstall the driveshaft, and lower the vehicle. Note that for this procedure, a press or large vise may be required, and it could be advisable to seek the assistance of a repair or machine shop for U-joint replacement.