During Driveshaft Inspection, which components should be checked for wear?

• A. Driveshafts and universal joints for wear
• B. Brake lines and calipers
• C. Radiator hoses
• D. Suspension springs

Answer: (A)

When inspecting the driveshaft, the focus is on wear in the driveshaft itself and the universal joints. The driveshaft transfers engine torque to the wheels, and the universal joints accommodate the shaft’s angular changes as the suspension moves. Wear or damage to these parts shows up as looseness, vibration, or binding, and may appear as cracked or leaking seals, rust, bent shafts, or worn joint caps. Check for excessive play at the joints, proper lubrication, damaged seals, and any imbalance like missing or damaged balance weights.

Brake lines and calipers belong to the braking system, radiator hoses to the cooling system, and suspension springs to the suspension—these aren’t the parts evaluated during a driveshaft inspection.