A driveshaft is in charge of transferring engine power from the transmitting to the differential and onto the drive wheels. A driveshaft could be one or two pieces with a center support bearing in the middle. There will be universal joints at either end of the driveshaft which act as flex joints that permit the differential to go upward when the car contacts a bump. A front side driveshaft yoke is utilized to connect to the transmitting while a backside driveshaft flange is utilized to connect to the differential. On older models the rear U joint bolts right to the differential without by using a rear flange. On entrance wheel drive cars there are two drive shafts which are called CV axles.
Driveshaft themselves have very little problems with the exception to become bent if they are exposed to an obstruction. On the other hand the U joints can cause concerns which are part of the driveshaft such as chirping and clucking when the car is moving or put into gear.
Something you need to understand that might not be considered is whenever a driveshaft is taken out the car will no longer maintain park. The car will roll because the link between your drive wheels and transmission is taken out. You will need to raise the car or truck up using a flooring jack and jackstays. Dress in protective eyewear and gloves before you begin.
Tag the driveshaft orientation before you begin. This will help go back the driveshaft to its primary placement on the differential that may help avoid driveline vibrations once the driveshaft is reinstalled.
Using a plastic hammer gently shock the driveshaft loose right from the differential flange by striking the rear yoke (U joint install). At this time the back 1 / 2 of the shaft will end up being free so keep hold of it. On some autos there will be a center support which should be undone by taking away the two centre support mounting bolts. When removing a mature vehicle drive shaft employ electric tape to wrap around the u joint cups thus they don’t really fall off and relieve the cup needle bearings.

On front wheel drive cars the driveshaft is not used. The tranny and differential is merged into one Front Drive Shaft device 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 are straightened and computer balanced and examined to closer tolerances than OEM specs.
The drive shaft is the part on the low right side of the picture. The other end of it might be linked to the transmission.