Description and principle of operation

• Constant velocity joints are installed at both ends of the front drive axles to ensure smooth running.
• On the gearbox side, tripod joints are installed (which include a tripod element, working rollers and a joint housing).
• The joints installed on the wheel side are ball joints (they consist of a star-shaped cage for the balls, a separator and an outer cage).
• The left "tripod" is fixed to the differential using a split retaining ring.
• The intermediate shaft (right side) is secured to the differential by means of an intermediate shaft intermediate support.
• The tripod housing of the right front drive axle shaft and the intermediate shaft are installed as a single element.
• Constant velocity joints on the wheel side are attached to the wheel hubs.

Exploded view of front drive axle shaft

Pos.	Spare Part No	Name
1	-	Fixed ball joint with front drive axle shaft
2	-	Cover clamp (large)
3	-	Case
4	-	Cover clamp (small)
5	-	CV joint retaining ring on gearbox side
6	-	Star-shaped "tripod" cage with constant velocity rollers
7	-	Hinge housing
8	-	Intermediate shaft with intermediate support

Operating principle of front drive axles

• The front drive axles transmit engine torque to the wheels.
• To allow for vertical movement of the wheels and engine, the front drive axles can operate at different lengths and angles.
• Tripod hinges provide a change in the length of the axle shaft during axial movements.

Rules for handling front drive axle shafts

NOTE: Do not place tension on the tripod joints.


When removing/installing and assembling/disassembling the front drive axle shafts, be especially careful. Observe the following rules:

• The internal tripod joint must not be tilted more than 18°.
• Check polished surfaces and splines for damage.
• Avoid contact of covers with sharp edges, heated engines and exhaust system components.
• Do not allow the front drive axle to drop as this may cause internal damage to the boots without causing any visible external damage.
• Do not use the front drive axle shafts as an alignment aid when installing other components. The front drive axle shafts must always be freely suspended.
• The tripod joint may be damaged as a result of impacts from the outside to the joint body.

Front wheel balancing

CAUTION: Using a portable wheel balancer on a vehicle that is completely raised off the ground will damage the tripod joints and boots because it will cause the joint to tilt too far and overheat.

To use a portable balancing unit, place a trolley jack under the suspension arm opposite the wheel being balanced. This will prevent excessive deflection of the tripod joint when the vehicle is raised.

If possible, wheels should be removed for balancing and balanced on a stationary balancing stand.

Lifting a car

CAUTION: Do not use the ball joints or front drive axles as jacking points for the vehicle.

Towing a car

CAUTION: Do not attach the towing rope to the front drive axle.

Underbody protection and anti-corrosion treatment

NOTE: When applying underbody protection and anti-corrosion treatment, the covers must be closed.

The presence of foreign material on the covers can lead to premature aging of the material. Foreign material on the front drive axles can cause imbalance.