MC’S AutoFactors carry an extensive stock of driveshafts for all Ford vehicle models. So if you are looking for a driveshaft for your Ford please call our parts hotline at (01) 408 9042 today for the best value available anywhere, plus next day express delivery of your Ford driveshaft to any destination throughout Ireland.
What is the Driveshaft of a Car?
In simple terms a car’s driveshaft is what converts the engine’s power into forward momentum by making the wheels – specifically the drive wheels – turn. In the case of front wheel drive cars and vans, they have two drive shafts that are frequently referred to as half shafts. In rear wheel drive motor vehicles there is a long driveshaft that extends to the back wheels.
Problems With the Driveshaft
Under normal circumstances a drive shaft does not fail catastrophically as deterioration of the driveshaft usually happens over a sustained period of time. Therefore if driveshaft problems are detected relatively quickly then more extensive, and expensive, repairs can be avoided. There are a number manifest symptoms that may suggest that your vehicle’s drive shaft is faulty.
Vibration
Problems with the drive shaft may cause unusual vibration in the vehicle. If the entire car or van vibrates, especially if the vibration appears to be coming from the floor of the vehicle, this is a strong indicator of driveshaft problems. You cannot rule out a tyre problem but they are usually noticeable during acceleration. If the vibration is evident when the car is stationary then it most probably a drive shaft problem.
Sound
A faulty driveshaft may generate unusual noise from the vehicle. If you hear a low squeaking noise that gets worse as you increase speed, but disappears at higher speed, this is suggestive of a significant problem with the driveshaft’s Universal Joint or U-joint.
Problems Turning
If your vehicle has a driveshaft problem this may affect it’s ability to turn properly. Manoeuvring, such as parking, may become very problematic. You may also notice that your wheels hesitate, or that there is resistance, when you try to turn a corner.
U-Joint Movement
A U-joint that moves too much or does not rotate at all can mean that you have a driveshaft problem. You can check this by putting the vehicle into neutral and put on the hand brake. Move the yokes of the U-joint back and forth to check for flexibility. If there is too much movement, or give, in any direction, the U-joint is almost definitely unstable. You should also check for visible rust on the bearing cap seals surrounding the U-joint as this can indicate that you have a driveshaft problem.
If you need to order a replacement Ford driveshaft please contact MC’s today.