A driveshaft is in charge of transferring engine power from the transmitting to the differential and onto the travel wheels. A driveshaft can be one or two pieces with a middle support bearing in the middle. There are universal joints at either end of the driveshaft which become flex joints that permit the differential to move upward when the car contacts a bump. A front driveshaft yoke is employed to connect to the transmitting while a backside driveshaft flange is Front Drive Shaft utilized to connect to the differential. On more mature models the rear U joint bolts directly to the differential without utilizing a rear flange. On front wheel drive vehicles there are two drive shafts which are referred to as CV axles.
Driveshaft themselves have hardly any issues with the exception of becoming bent if they are exposed to an obstruction. Alternatively the U joints could cause concerns which are a part of the driveshaft such as chirping and clucking when the automobile is moving or placed into gear.
Something you need to understand that might not be thought of is whenever a driveshaft is taken away the car will no longer maintain park. The automobile will roll because the link between your drive wheels and tranny is taken off. You need to raise the car up using a flooring jack and jackstays. Put on protective eyewear and gloves 
before you begin.
Tag the driveshaft orientation before beginning. This will help come back the driveshaft to its initial situation on the differential that may support avoid driveline vibrations after the driveshaft is reinstalled.
Using a plastic hammer softly shock the driveshaft loose coming from the differential flange simply by striking the trunk yoke (U joint attach). At this stage the back 1 / 2 of the shaft will end up being free so keep hold of it. On some autos you will see a centre support which must be undone by eliminating the two centre support installation bolts. When removing an older vehicle drive shaft work with electrical tape to wrap around the u joint cups consequently they don’t fall off and launch the glass needle bearings.
On front wheel drive cars the driveshaft is not used. The transmitting and differential is merged into one product called a transaxle.
All shafts are reassembled with new universal joints and CV centering kits with grease fittings and so are then completely greased with the proper lubricant. All shafts will be straightened and computer balanced and analyzed to closer tolerances than OEM technical specs.
The drive shaft is the part on the lower proper side of the picture. The other end of it might be connected to the transmission.