A driveshaft is responsible for transferring engine power from the transmission to the differential and onto the travel wheels. A driveshaft could be one or two pieces with a center support bearing in the middle. There happen to be Front Drive Shaft universal joints at either end of the driveshaft which become flex joints that allow the differential to move upward when the automobile contacts a bump. A front driveshaft yoke is utilized to connect to the transmission while a backside driveshaft flange is used to connect to the differential. On older models the rear U joint bolts right to the differential without by using a rear flange. On the front wheel drive vehicles there are two travel shafts which are referred to as CV axles.
Driveshaft themselves have hardly any problems with the exception of becoming bent if they are exposed to an obstruction. However the U joints could cause challenges which are a part of the driveshaft such as for example chirping and clucking when the automobile is moving or put into gear.
Something you need to understand that may not be thought of is when a driveshaft is taken away the car will no longer maintain park. The automobile will roll because the link between the drive wheels and tranny is removed. You will have to raise the car or truck up using a ground jack and jackstays. Dress in protective eyewear and gloves before you begin.
Indicate the driveshaft orientation before beginning. This will help gain the driveshaft to its unique position on the differential which can help avoid driveline vibrations once the driveshaft is reinstalled.
Using a plastic hammer lightly shock the driveshaft loose via the differential flange simply by striking the rear yoke (U joint attach). At this time the back 1 / 2 
of the shaft will be free so keep hold of it. On some vehicles you will see a center support which must be undone by taking away the two centre support installation bolts. When removing an older vehicle drive shaft use electrical tape to wrap around the u joint cups so they don’t fall off and relieve the cup needle bearings.
On front wheel drive cars the driveshaft isn’t used. The transmitting and differential is put together into one product called a transaxle.
All shafts are reassembled with fresh universal joints and CV centering kits with grease fittings and so are then completely greased with the correct lubricant. All shafts will be straightened and pc balanced and analyzed to closer tolerances than OEM specifications.
The drive shaft is the part on the lower right side of the picture. The additional end of it might be linked to the transmission.